The year’s end is fast approaching, and the pressure is on for employers to hit financial forecasts, particularly this year when many businesses have been negatively affected by the pandemic. Employee performance is also under the microscope, and it’s tempting to clean house and start the new year on the right track. Cutting low-producing staff might seem like a great solution, but think twice before terminating employees during the holiday season—even if you think they have to go.

Keep in mind employees are already stressed about covering holiday expenses, and the likelihood of finding another job before the new year is low. Holiday parties and family Zoom calls add fuel to the fire when a terminated employee is asked: “How’s work going?” Given the added seasonal pressures, employees are more likely to feel unfairly treated when fired around the holidays and become more passionate about contacting a lawyer.