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Salary Negotiation

How to Negotiate a Severance Package with Calm Composure

Being laid off is emotionally shocking. The 3 things you must never say in a termination meeting, and how to negotiate additional weeks of pay, healthcare, and accelerated vesting.

Amit Kasliwal
Amit KasliwalCEO & Founder, Dehurdle
August 19, 20261 min read

The Friction

During an unexpected layoff, shock and grief lead many people to sign the first severance agreement placed in front of them. Remember: severance agreements are legal contracts designed to release company liability. Many of their terms are negotiable.

The Golden Rule: Never Sign in the Room

During the initial notification meeting, keep your composure and ask for the documents in writing.

Recommended script
What to say in the meeting: "Thank you for informing me. I understand this was a difficult business decision. I will take these documents home, review the terms carefully, and follow up with HR in 48 hours."

The 4 Levers to Request in Writing

01
Additional Weeks of Base Pay: Ask for 2–4 additional weeks based on your recent project contributions.
02
COBRA Healthcare Premiums: Request 100% employer-covered healthcare for the duration of the severance period.
03
Vesting Date Acceleration: Request that unvested shares through the end of the current quarter be accelerated.
04
Mutual Non-Disparagement & Positive Reference: Ensure the agreement explicitly states HR will confirm standard title and dates of employment with positive reference notes.

The 2-Minute Practice Drill

2-Minute Spoken Practice

The 2-Minute Practice Drill

Rehearse maintaining flat vocal tone and emotional composure in a Dehurdle simulation. Practice resisting the urge to apologize, argue, or sign impulsively under emotional stress.

Try the Free Speech CheckBook a Demo

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