The short answer is yes, you can fire an employee for disrespectful behavior. You also need to record what you have done to work with the employee to improve the behavior. An employee who is fired may decide to sue the company, which is why it’s important to document all incidents of bad behavior.

11 Tips to Stop Being Cynical

1. Admit to yourself that you are cynical. Once you acknowledge this, it will be easier to work on changing your attitude.
2. Embrace positivity.
3. Practice gratitude.
4. Breathe.
5. Be mindful.
6. Be playful, even for just five minutes every day.
7. Limit your news consumption.
8. Reveal your true self.

Talk to cynical employees about their behavior and engage them in finding positive solutions to their workplace problems to keep cynicism from poisoning your business.

1. Identify the nature of the problem.
2. Talk with the employee one-on-one.
3. Approach the employee empathetically during the conversation.

1 : insultingly contemptuous in speech or conduct : overbearing. 2 : exhibiting boldness or effrontery : impudent.

If you were fired from your job and think that it could have been retaliation due to a discussion with human resources or your supervisor, the action might be an illegal one. Illegal workplace retaliation can pertain not only to firing, but also to hiring, promotions, benefits, layoffs, salary, job duties and training.

Firing an employee for personality conflicts isn’t a common practice because employers are more concerned with overall job performance. That said, talking about your boss behind their back seldom ends well. Privately owned companies can fire you for insubordination. Employment-at-will workers may be fired on the spot.