Ways you can negotiate when you're laid off (and heal from the hurt of a layoff)
Before anything else, if you have become unemployed I want to extend you love and support at this time.
It is hard and it seems like the resources are becoming more and more limited but do not give up. Keep applying to jobs and continue to cultivate important professional relationships.
When your employer first notifies you of the layoff:
First, DON’T SIGN ANYTHING until you read it through. Read through that paperwork, especially if you have a severance package. Don’t let anyone rush you in reading and understanding your documentation.
Speak up and ask questions. Is the severance pay fair in comparison to previous layoffs? If not, prepare evidence-based reasoning and negotiate*!!!
Are you eligible for unemployment? How long will you have company-covered health insurance?
*Here are some things you should consider negotiating:
More money $$$ — we always teach our clients to negotiate for a new job or promotion, to advocate and speak to all the value they have brought in their time/leverage the success they’ve had at the company that’s laying them off
Continued healthcare coverage (whether it be for an additional amount of months or until the calendar year ends)
Keeping the technology and equipment that was provided, like your laptop, will assist you with your job search ahead
Outplacement or job-training services
If it is a massive lay-off, try to get a written confirmation that it was due to a reduced workforce/lack of business (with your last day and employer’s signature included).
I know this is all a mind-f*ck
But take a moment to take everything in.
Process what you’re feeling and take the time to heal. This is real, what you feel is valid, and you reserve all the right to feel it.
If you’re angry, be angry. If you’re disappointed and lost, experience it and let it flow out.
The next step would be finding the lesson in your situation. What is 1% that you can appreciate about this?
Yes, one teeny tiny percent.
In response to being laid off, one of my clients said: “This gave me the kick in the butt I needed because I would have never left this job”
And another said: “I now have the space to reprioritize and think about passion, creativity, and be aligned with my values..”
More recently, a group coaching program graduate who was laid off during their time in our program was actually able to find a more values-aligned company, $10k more in their base salary, and a $10k signing bonus.
Turn your layoff into an opportunity to get more of what you actually want and keep advocating for yourself. And remember that two things can coexist: we can be grateful for what we have and still pursue the life we want.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help in rebuilding your resume, growing your network, and applying for jobs.
If you’re looking for a community of BIWOC professionals and support from a team of expert leadership coaches, we got you.
Leadership & Negotiation Coach for Women of Color in Technology|Founder|Workshop Facilitator, Speaker & Trainer
Nadia’s career and leadership expertise has been featured in CNBC, HuffPost, FastCompany, New York Times Kids, and The Muse.
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