Don't Get Pressured Into Signing A Severance Agreement
Lately, I have been hearing stories from employees who are being intensely pressured by their employers to sign severance agreements. Just the other day we had a high level executive who was handed a severance agreement that said she had 21 days to review the agreement. But, the companies HR department told the executive that she only had one day to sign the agreement or face immediate termination and no severance. Luckily, this executive hired us and we called the HR department and they backed off right away. But, how should you handle this situation if it happens to you? First, if the agreement says that you have 21 days or another time period to review the agreement, you should hold the company to its word. They made a written promise to you and you should follow what they say in writing. Take your time to review the agreement and find an experienced employment lawyer to give it a look if can. But do not let your company pressure you into signing it prematurely. Hold your ground. Also, don't be afraid to politely ask for more money or benefits or both. Simply ask if the company would consider increasing the payment and benefits offered.
