Work related issue-any advice

[Major Nikon]

30. That's how it works

It isn't a court of law and your own defense will be severely limited.

Typically they will interview you at some point. You may or may not be allowed to have a lawyer or some other representative present. If this happens and you don't, here's what I recommend to do during that interview:

1) Answer all questions truthfully and directly. If they catch you in a lie that alone is an example of lack of candor and will almost always get you fired for that reason alone.

2) Do not answer a question that wasn't asked. This seems obvious, but you'd be surprised at how many people will continue to talk when they should be shutting up. If they ask you a yes or no question, answer with simply yes or no. If they want more information they will ask follow up questions. Listen to the question carefully and answer it carefully.

3) Remember that the interview is NOT the time for you to present your defense. Usually it's conducted by a fact finder and not a decision maker. Ask to present a written defense AFTER the interview is over. Even if you are guilty of whatever it is they are accusing you of doing, you should be allowed to present mitigating factors and offers of remorse. This may make the difference between a suspension or removal. If you are guilty, then admitting your mistake and accepting atonement is the difference between an employee who is capable of learning from their mistakes and one who isn't.