Swearing at a boss may feel impulsive, but in South African labour law, emotional outbursts seldom excuse misconduct. The Labour Relations Act recognises verbal abuse toward senior leaders as gross misconduct and insubordination. Dismissal can be fair if trust breaks down and procedures are followed. While stress or provocation may mitigate, the law prioritises respect, discipline, and procedural fairness over emotional impulse.

Explore key causes and signs of team incompatibility—and how to address it to boost collaboration, retention, and workplace harmony.

Effective management of poor performance is key to business sustainability. Learn structured steps to maintain fairness and productivity.

Exploring the nuances of misconduct dismissal in SA workplaces, focusing on the distinction between 'intolerability' and 'incompatibility'.