Emails to Kickstart Your severance Negotiation
Start Your Severance Negotiation with Confidence
Facing a severance situation can be overwhelming and it can be challenging to know what to expect. Knowing how to communicate your needs effectively can make a significant difference. Whether you're advocating for better terms or clarifying the details of your package, crafting a professional and concise email is an essential first step.
When negotiating your severance package, it’s essential to understand all the terms and know what to ask for. From securing additional pay to clarifying benefits continuation and outplacement services, the right questions can significantly impact your outcome. For a comprehensive approach to severance negotiations, be sure to also check out the Ultimate Guide to Successfully Navigating Severance Negotiation in Canada for expert tips and actionable steps.
To help you navigate this process, we’ve prepared two sample emails tailored for common severance scenarios. These templates are designed to guide you in starting the negotiation conversation or ensuring you have all the information needed to manage your transition with confidence.
Professionally Written Sample Emails for Severance Negotiation
Email 1: Request for Clarity on Severance Details
Subject: Request for Additional Severance Details
Hi [Name],
Following up on my accepted severance package, I’m seeking clarification on a few details to ensure I can responsibly manage my finances during this transition.
Could you please provide the following information:
The total amount for any outstanding vacation pay and commissions, along with the payment dates.
How my benefits will continue during the severance period.
Details on the company's commitment to funding my MBA program.
The process for obtaining my Record of Employment and any impact it will have on my eligibility for Employment Insurance.
Thank you for your assistance, and I look forward to your response by [date].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Email 2: Start the Severance Negotiation Conversation
Subject: Severance Package Discussion
Hi [Name],
Thank you for presenting me with the severance package. I understand and appreciate the company’s offer, but I would like to discuss a few adjustments.
Given my ten years of service, I propose increasing the severance to 3.5 weeks per year of service rather than the 2 weeks offered. Based on my position and experience, I anticipate that securing a new role may take a bit longer.
Additionally, I would appreciate an extension of my benefits coverage for the duration of the severance package and consideration of outplacement assistance to support my transition.
Please let me know if we can discuss these points further. I’d appreciate your response by [date].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Email 3: Follow-Up on Severance Negotiation
Subject: Follow-Up on Severance Package Adjustment
Hi [Name],
I appreciate the company’s offer and understand its position. However, I believe there is an opportunity to revisit the terms regarding severance pay and benefits continuation.
Given my [X] years of service and the current job market conditions, securing a new role may take longer than initially anticipated. As such, I’d like to propose an increase in the severance to 3.5 weeks per year of service, as well as an extension of my benefits coverage for the duration of the severance period. I would also like to explore the possibility of outplacement assistance to support my transition to new opportunities.
Additionally, I would appreciate further information on the company's support for my professional development during this period.
I would be grateful if we could continue this conversation via email, and I look forward to discussing these adjustments by [date]. As I’m sure you can appreciate this situation is stressful for me and my family. Look forward to resolving this in a timely manner.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
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Key Takeaways for Successful Severance Negotiation
Severance negotiations don’t have to be intimidating. By using clear and professional communication, you can advocate for your needs while maintaining a constructive dialogue with your employer. These email templates provide a starting point to approach your severance process confidently and effectively.
Remember, taking the time to address these discussions with preparation and professionalism can lead to a smoother transition and a stronger foundation for your next career step. Always make sure to advocate for yourself!
