An employee was awarded $10,000 after her former employer sacked her by SMS. You can read about it in this Smart Company article written by Madeleine Heffernan.

As Generation Y take on more Middle Management or Team Leader roles, the need to train them on business etiquette through policies and procedures will become more necessary than it was for previous generations.

Generation Y have grown up with Modern Technology including Mobile Phones, E-Mails, Facebook, Twitter and so do not think twice about using this form of technology in very day communication. Whilst it may be socially acceptable to use these forms of communication, is it ok to use in the context of a business environment, particularly with disciplinary action, or in this case, sacking a staff member. Whilst we do not know if the employer in this case was of the Generation Y, it is easy to see how there is a greater risk of this becoming more commonplace into the future.

Every business owner should take steps to ensure they have systems and procedures in place to make sure this doesnt happen in their business; importantly, they should also have Management Liability or Employment Practices Liability (EPL) Insurance in place just incase procedure isnt followed or perhaps has become 'out of date'.

For more advice on Employment Practices Liability Insurance, contact Affinity Insurance Services on 1300 429 707.