Is it common practice for owners to leave when firing?

Question

I work for a partnership where the partners fire a staff member and then they both leave the building while the fired one collects their belongings and leaves. Once this now-former-employee leaves the parking lot I call the owners and tell them the coast is clear and they come back to work.

Answer 1

Sounds like they are scared *******!  

Answer 2

That's very weird.

I'd think that for their own protection and that of their business, they'd want to stay and escort the employee off premises immediately.

It's weird.  And unprofessional.

Answer 3

With employees going postal now a days they are taking the precautions. Its pretty normal.

At least they do the firing as well several companies leave it up to the employee's manager or human resources department.

Answer 4

Yes.  They want to avoid a confrontation.  It happens a lot.

Answer 5

It is very uncomfortable to have to let someone go.  However, I do it myself and I see the person out.  I don't think I could respect myself if I didn't, and therefore couldn't expect anyone else to respect me.

Answer 6

some do,  it is not common..............................

i guess they do it to relieve the pressure and prevent any confrontation.

seems to me if they are confident in their employment decisions they would be there and politely help the ex-employee pack up and respectfully send them on there way in as gracious a manner as possible.