Many companies contract with outplacement firms, which dispense career advice to laid-off workers and help them look for new jobs. However the negotiations go, make sure to get everything in writing. At this point, it may be a good idea to see a lawyer. Larger companies have stated policies regarding layoffs and severance, so make sure that the terms of the deal don't fall short of those guidelines. There may be strings attached.
Some agreements go further.
In fact, such agreements are not that unusual these days, says Tobias. Also becoming common is for employees to be asked not to reapply at the company. The fear is that if they do reapply and don't get hired, they will sue, he explains. Don't burn your bridges Becoming angry or depressed after being pink-slipped is understandable, but lashing out at your employer will do more harm than good. And if it helps, remember that you are not alone.