Google is quiet about its recent acquisitions. However, interesting thing is that Google is slowly acquiring and developing best technologies, brands and a host of best services. In addition, for a company like Google, it is required to be on mobile phones too.

With popularity of blogs, little is left for such social networking programs. However, if these social networking applications are combined with blogging, it makes a very powerful social networking package. In my opinion, this could be reason for acquisition. Yahoo 360, Blogger and Picasa, war is on.

Get legal advice if you have any questions. Balance £200-500 for advice against £50,000 max unfair dismissal compensation! Phone lawyers and ask for advice on dismissal - sometimes possible over phone for a fee. Remember, sexual/racial discrimination compensation is unlimited, so always take legal advice if this might be alleged, whether or not it happened.

Plan your speech exactly and write out a script. It ensures you say everything necessary, and helps if you get stuck. There can be temptation to offer sympathetic/reassuring words to sweeten message. Unfortunately, kindness here can cause confusion and lead to legal action. Have a witness present - never fire one-to-one.

Stay calm - never act in anger. Even summary dismissal can be done after an hour to prepare and calm down. If employees lash out verbally/physically, don't respond. Get it right, and this is last time you will deal with them - they will no longer be your problem.

Be humane - treat people sympathetically if possible - without conveying anything positive about conduct/capability. They are losing their job and income. They are frightened, angry, upset, devastated - and you have to deal with it. Sympathise with their predicament without commenting on cause. Being calm and softly spoken can negate trauma. It also decreases unpleasantness - it's harder to abuse someone who is being nice to you.

Recommended action: ·Have a policy, publicised to all staff, and signed for receipt by all. ·Have policy legally checked by an expert. ·Always prepare. ·Remember way you terminate someone can be legally unfair, even if grounds are perfect.