You work for a company that has experienced a lot of turbulence and change. You’ve heard rumours of layoffs and are concerned that you’ll be next. If you’ve been a great employee and are being let off for no apparent reason, make sure you ask these three questions when you get your Pink Slip:
- Request a letter of recommendation. You can utilize this to assist you acquire that new job because having a letter that praises you and your accomplishments will be advantageous. This will demonstrate to potential employers that your termination was due to a business decision rather than any wrongdoing on your side. Most people forget to inquire about this, and it is tough to go back and inquire later.
- Find out if severance money is available. Unless it was mentioned in your employment contract when you were employed, you are not automatically guaranteed this. One week of severance is usually paid for each year of service with the company, however this can be negotiated. Also, be sure to tell them if you’ve recently completed a significant project, been honored, or accomplished a major objective. It might buy you another week of severance compensation that you weren’t expecting.
- Do you have any unused vacation pay? The majority of the time, the answer is no. Some employers allow you to carry over unused vacation time from year to year, while others have a “use it or lose it” policy. Most employers will explain their policies in the employee handbook, but requesting for reimbursement for unused vacation money could get you a few extra dollars right now.
You may not receive any severance or vacation money, especially if you do not request it. Remember that your manager is in a difficult circumstance as well, so he or she may be willing to give you more than was originally anticipated. If you don’t try, you’ll never know, and the worst they can say is no. If the moment passes, there’s a good possibility you won’t get another chance to ask these questions. Knowing what to ask for ahead of time may give you the confidence to speak up for yourself during this trying moment. Best of luck!