Layoffs are never easy. Your company has been going through changes, the rumor mill is in overdrive, and you suspect your position may be next on the chopping block. If you’ve been a strong performer and your layoff isn’t due to poor performance, you still have an opportunity to walk away with benefits that can make your transition smoother.
When that difficult conversation happens, be ready to negotiate. Here are three critical questions to ask before you walk out the door.
1. Request a Letter of Reference
A letter of reference can be a powerful tool in your job search. It’s a written confirmation of your contributions and professionalism, and it can help future employers see that your departure was a business decision not the result of any wrongdoing.
Unfortunately, many people forget to ask for this during the termination process, only to realize later how hard it is to secure one after leaving. Don’t wait. Ask for a letter immediately while your accomplishments are still fresh in your manager’s mind.
2. Negotiate Severance Pay
Severance pay isn’t automatically guaranteed unless it’s outlined in your employment contract, but it’s often worth asking for especially if you’ve made recent, significant contributions to the company.
A general rule of thumb is one week of severance for each year of service, but this can be negotiable. If you’ve recently wrapped up a high-profile project, received an award, or achieved a major goal, bring it up during the discussion. It may persuade your employer to extend your severance package beyond what was originally planned.
3. Ask About Unused Vacation Pay
Unused vacation time can sometimes translate into extra money in your final paycheck but it depends on company policy and state laws. Some employers allow unused time to roll over year to year, while others have a strict “use it or lose it” policy.
Even if you think you know the policy from the employee handbook, it’s still worth asking. If your employer agrees to pay out your unused days, you could walk away with funds that help bridge the gap until your next job.
Why Asking Matters
You may not receive severance or vacation pay, and you won’t get a reference letter if you never request one. Remember, layoffs can be emotionally difficult for managers too, and in some cases, they may be willing to offer more than originally planned simply because you asked.
This may be your only opportunity to negotiate these benefits, so speak up. The worst they can say is no but the best-case scenario could give you the support you need to confidently move forward.
