Add Comment Question: lack of work how do i cut emplyees hours and he talks on phone all the time after being told not to affecting work Answer: Hello Robert, Cutting an employee's hours, or laying them off for a short period of time, is a difficult proposition as it can allow the employee to claim that these actions amount to a constructive dismissal and entitles them to a severance package. I suggest you contact us at the number below for a consultation with a lawyer to discuss the options available to you to cut an employee's hours. Your Comment * Your Email * Your Name * Your City Note, your name, city and email is not displayed on the website. It is used to notify you that we have approved your comment.