I was fired. My manager has been discussing the details of my termination with the customers. Can she do that?

Question

I ran into a customer (from the place I was fired from) yesterday. He informed me that my manager (from the place I was fired from) was discussing the details of my termination with all the customers. She added some false allegations along with her gossip. Can I take legal action?

Answer 1

Common decency would clearly indicate that gossip such as this would not be acceptable. Adding your assertion that false statements are being made, in addition to "the details of my termination" may be cause for legal action. Anyone making false allegations about someone and then telling those false allegations (of course assuming them to be false) to other persons may rise to the level of slander or libel, depending on how those statements were made. (either in writing or orally) The difficulty becomes proving your case. To be slander or libel the statements must meet several criteria. First, they must be false, second they must be made to third persons, third they must in some way harm your reputation in the community and fourth they must result in some economic damage or loss. In situations like this it is best to consult with an employment attorney in your jurisdiction.

Answer 2

The easiest and least expensive way to handle this situation is to go into the store and tell the manager that you have heard from other customers that she is discussing your dismissal. You've also heard a few embellishments to your dismissal. Explain to her that you do not appreciate her gossiping about you and that if it continues, you will be forced to take legal action. Not only is it unethical, but it is illegal to slander you. Say this very calmly and nicely, but assertively. Do not get into an argument with her about whether it did or did not happen. Say your piece and leave. That should be the end of it.

Answer 3

Defamation of Charcter is what you can claim against her. There's a chance you may be able to take action against the company as well (especially if its more likely that you'll win). If she hasnt been trained with workplace ettiquette by the company maybe yuo could say the company was neglectful in training her for the job which lead to her being unprofessional and talking about you to customers and co workers.

Answer 4

I don't know where you live, but I'll bet that you have privacy legislation that prevents this. If you do, file a privacy complaint. You could probably sue, but you would likely have to prove that the manager's actions caused you to sustain some damage. It may not be worth it, but it's your call.

Answer 5

First of all she can do that? ( She did ) Is it wrong? Yes! Can you do something about it? Yes! Well it cost you? Yes! ( Lawyers cost money. Justice is expensive in the USA ) Will you win? NO! Why? Your former employer has more money than you so you will not win. Want to get even? Go to "Rip Off.com" and tell the world about your former employer. ( Note: You must tell the truth ) Good luck.