How To Negotiate A Severance Package

When you get a job termination notice, don't shake hands with the people who have fired you. Instead, deliver a written counterproposal to the company's cookie cutter severance package. Ask for one month of severance pay for every year you worked there, an extra month of pay for each of your dependents, full health coverage until you find a job, a promise of strong references, and a lump-sum payment. If they refuse to negotiate, say they will hear from your attorney soon. In the unlikely event they call your bluff by letting you leave, have your lawyer place a call. Just stand ready to compromise, get the final check, and say goodbye.