Being let go from your job can happen by firing or layoff, and though neither is usually desired, the layoff is typically the method that carries less of a stigma. Firing occurs with one worker for any reason that usually involves job performance, unethical behavior or personality differences. Meanwhile, a layoff usually occurs with more than one worker for more impersonal reasons involving business or economic decisions. Regardless of the reason, companies must take great care in the way they conduct a layoff to avoid legal ramifications.