Negotiating a severance package can be a daunting task, but it’s important to remember that you have rights and options. This Severance Negotiation Email Sample provides a framework for communicating your needs and expectations to your employer. You can use these examples as a starting point and edit them as needed to fit your specific situation.
Structure of a Severance Negotiation Email Sample
When negotiating severance, it’s crucial to approach the conversation professionally and respectfully. An effective severance negotiation email should clearly outline your expectations and demonstrate your willingness to engage in productive discussions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to structuring your email:
Subject Line:
Keep the subject line clear and concise. Indicate that you’re interested in discussing severance terms, such as “Request for Severance Negotiation.”
Salutation:
Address the email to the appropriate recipient, using their name if known. A friendly greeting like “Dear [Name]” shows professionalism and sets a positive tone.
Introduction:
Begin the email with a brief introduction, stating your name and your current or former position in the company. Mention that you’re writing to discuss severance terms following your recent termination or resignation.
Thank You and Appreciation:
Express your gratitude for the opportunity to have worked with the company. Acknowledging the positive aspects of your experience can help foster a constructive dialogue.
Request for Negotiation:
Politely request a meeting or discussion to negotiate severance terms. Specify your preferred method of communication, whether it’s a virtual meeting, phone call, or in-person meeting. Offer a few potential dates and times to accommodate their schedule.
Severance Expectations:
Outline your severance expectations in a clear and straightforward manner. Be specific about the elements you’d like to discuss, such as:
- Severance Pay: State the amount of severance pay you believe is appropriate, considering factors like your tenure, job level, and company policies.
- Compensation for Unused PTO: Request compensation for any unused paid time off (PTO) or vacation days.
- Continuation of Benefits: Inquire about the continuation of health insurance, dental insurance, or other benefits during the transition period.
- Outplacement Services: Ask about access to outplacement services, such as career counseling, resume writing assistance, or job search support.
- Reference Letters and Recommendations: Discuss the possibility of receiving positive reference letters or recommendations from the company.
Willingness to Discuss:
Emphasize your willingness to engage in a fair and constructive negotiation process. Indicate that you’re open to discussing alternative proposals and finding a mutually beneficial solution.
Conclusion:
Conclude the email with a polite and professional tone. Thank the recipient for their time and consideration. Express your hope for a positive resolution.
Call to Action:
Encourage a prompt response by providing your contact information, such as your phone number or email address. Invite the recipient to reach out to you if they have any questions or prefer to discuss the matter over the phone.
Signature:
Sign off with your full name, followed by your contact information (email address and phone number) for easy reference.
7 Sample of Severance Negotiation Email Samples for Different Reasons
Reason: Company Downsizing/Restructuring
Dear [Manager Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to you today to discuss my severance package in light of the recent company downsizing. As a loyal employee of [Company Name] for the past [Number] years, I have always strived to contribute to the company’s growth and success.
I understand that this decision has been a difficult one for you and the company as a whole. However, I believe that a fair and reasonable severance package is essential to ensure a smooth transition for me and my family.
I would like to negotiate the following terms in my severance package:
- A severance payment equal to one month’s salary for each year of service
- Continued health insurance coverage for [Number] months
- Outplacement services to assist in my job search
- A letter of recommendation from you
I believe that these terms are fair and reasonable, and I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually beneficial.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reason: Personal Reasons
Dear [Manager Name],
I hope you are doing well.
I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from my position at [Company Name] effective [Date].
This decision has been a difficult one for me, but it is one that I have made after much thought and consideration. I have been with [Company Name] for [Number] years and have grown professionally and personally during my time here. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that I have had, and I wish the company all the best in the future.
However, I have come to realize that I need to take a break from the corporate world and focus on my personal life. I have been feeling increasingly stressed and overwhelmed by the demands of my job, and I believe that taking some time off will allow me to recharge and rediscover my passion for my work.
I understand that my resignation may come as a surprise, but I hope that you will understand my decision. I would like to negotiate the following terms in my severance package:
- A severance payment equal to two weeks’ salary
- Continued health insurance coverage for one month
- A letter of recommendation from you
I believe that these terms are fair and reasonable, and I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually beneficial.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reason: Termination of Employment
Dear [Manager Name],
I am writing to you today to express my disappointment and concern regarding my recent termination of employment from [Company Name].
I have been a dedicated employee of [Company Name] for [Number] years and have consistently exceeded expectations in my role. I have never received any negative performance reviews and have always been praised for my work ethic and commitment to the company.
I believe that my termination was wrongful and without just cause. I was not given any prior warning or opportunity to improve my performance. I was simply told that my services were no longer required.
I am requesting that we negotiate a severance package that is fair and reasonable given my circumstances.
I would like to discuss the following terms:
- A severance payment equal to three months’ salary
- Continued health insurance coverage for six months
- Outplacement services to assist in my job search
- A letter of recommendation from you
I believe that these terms are fair and reasonable, and I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually beneficial.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reason: Retirement
Dear [Manager Name],
I am writing to inform you of my decision to retire from my position at [Company Name] effective [Date].
This decision has been a long time coming, and I am excited to start this new chapter in my life. I have been with [Company Name] for [Number] years and have had the privilege of working with some of the most talented and dedicated people in the industry. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that I have had, and I wish the company all the best in the future.
I would like to negotiate the following terms in my severance package:
- A severance payment equal to one month’s salary for each year of service
- Continued health insurance coverage for one year
- A letter of recommendation from you
I believe that these terms are fair and reasonable, and I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually beneficial.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reason: Relocation
Dear [Manager Name],
I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from my position at [Company Name] due to my relocation to [New Location].
This decision has been a difficult one for me, as I have enjoyed my time at [Company Name] and have made many valuable connections with my colleagues. However, my family has decided to move to [New Location] for personal reasons, and I will be unable to continue working at [Company Name].
I would like to negotiate the following terms in my severance package:
- A severance payment equal to two weeks’ salary
- Continued health insurance coverage for one month
- A letter of recommendation from you
I believe that these terms are fair and reasonable, and I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually beneficial.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reason: Disability
Dear [Manager Name],
I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from my position at [Company Name] due to a disability.
I have been diagnosed with [Disability], which has made it impossible for me to continue working in my current role. I have been working with my doctor to manage my condition, but unfortunately, I am unable to perform the essential functions of my job.
I am requesting that we negotiate a severance package that is fair and reasonable given my circumstances.
I would like to discuss the following terms:
- A severance payment equal to three months’ salary
- Continued health insurance coverage for six months
- Outplacement services to assist in my job search
- A letter of recommendation from you
I believe that these terms are fair and reasonable, and I hope that we can come to an agreement that is mutually beneficial.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reason: New Opportunity
Dear [Manager Name],
Severance Negotiation Email Sample: Tips for Success
Preparing your severance negotiation email can be daunting, as it involves discussion of potentially sensitive topics. Here are some tips to guide you through this process:
Be Polite and Professional:
- Begin your email with a friendly greeting.
- Avoid using slang, derogatory language, or accusations.
- Maintain a professional tone throughout the email.
Thank Your Employer:
Express your gratitude for the opportunity to have worked at the company, emphasizing your positive experiences and contributions.
Highlight Your Achievements:
- Subtly remind your employer of your accomplishments and contributions to the company.
- Mention specific projects or initiatives you were a part of and the positive impact you’ve made.
Emphasize the Impact of Layoffs:
Express genuine concern for the impact of layoffs on employees, including yourself. Acknowledge the difficult circumstances and show empathy.
Request a Severance Package:
- Be clear in your request for a severance package.
- If you have a specific offer in mind, state it explicitly. Otherwise, use phrases like “fair and reasonable” or “industry standard.”
Focus on Benefits:
- Discuss your expectations regarding benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, and vacation pay.
- Inquire about any additional benefits or resources the company might offer during the transition period.
Be Open to Non-Monetary Benefits:
Consider non-monetary benefits that could be valuable to you, such as job placement assistance, outplacement services, or letters of recommendation.
Express Willingness to Negotiate:
- Demonstrate your openness to discussing the terms of the severance package.
- Indicate your willingness to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Conclude Positively:
- Thank the recipient for their time and consideration.
- Express your wish for a productive and fair negotiation process.
Proofread:
Carefully review your email for any errors or typos before sending it. A well-written and professional email can make a positive impact on the negotiation process.
Provide Contact Information:
Include your contact information, such as your phone number and email address, to facilitate further communication.
Severance Negotiation Email Sample FAQs
Q: How can I politely initiate a severance negotiation in an email?
A: Start your email by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to have worked at your company. Thank them for the experience and any positive aspects of your employment. Then, use a professional tone and specific, tactful language to request a negotiation.
Q: What key information should I include in my severance negotiation email?
A: Include details on your role, length of employment, and achievements within the company. Outline why you believe you deserve a severance package and what you’re proposing in terms of compensation.
Q: How can I ensure that my email is professional and well-written?
A: Use concise language and avoid rambling. Keep your email focused on the specifics of your severance negotiation. Proofread carefully to eliminate errors that could undermine your professionalism.
Q: What should I do if I receive a counteroffer from my employer during the negotiation process?
A: This can be a difficult position to navigate. Consider the terms of the counteroffer carefully and compare them with what you were initially seeking. Weigh the pros and cons of accepting the offer against the potential benefits of continuing negotiations or pursuing other employment opportunities.
Q: How can I negotiate severance if my employer is hesitant to provide a package?
A: Highlight the value you brought to the company and emphasize the positive contributions you made during your tenure. If necessary, you can propose creative solutions, such as a phased departure or a transition period to assist with the handover of your responsibilities.
Q: What should I do if the initial request for negotiation via email is unsuccessful?
A: If your employer doesn’t respond favorably to your initial email, consider scheduling a face-to-face meeting to foster better communication and understanding. During this meeting, you can discuss your expectations and further negotiate the severance package.
Q: When is it appropriate to involve a lawyer in my severance negotiations?
A: If you feel like you’re not being treated fairly or if negotiations have reached an impasse, it might be beneficial to seek legal advice. A lawyer can provide you with guidance on the legality of your situation and potentially even assist in the negotiation process.
Thank You and Keep the Connection
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this article on severance negotiation email samples. I know that negotiating severance can be a daunting task, but I hope that this information has helped you feel more prepared.
Remember, the key is to be confident, prepared, and respectful during the negotiation process. By following the tips in this article, you can increase your chances of getting the severance package that you deserve.
And keep in mind, I’ll regularly update this content so that you will be equipped with the latest information. If you have any more questions, feel free to visit again later. I’m always happy to help!