Even though most employment relationships in California are at-will, an employer needs to understand when and how to properly terminate an employee. In some cases a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) is the right course to take, and in other cases, termination is warranted. Learning the best way to navigate the termination "meeting" is crucial - including who and what materials should be present. It is also extremely important to document everything relating to employees in writing, using specific facts rather than paraphrasing and making conclusions.