In your “meeting,” if no severance agreement is offered – ask for one! Be serious and look them straight in the eye. Do not back down.   You can always ask for a severance agreement later.  If it must be done later, asking for a formal meeting may be best. 

You will most likely play an emotional card when making the request.  This is better done in person.  Try and schedule the meeting away from the office.  The office is their power location – go somewhere you will feel comfortable.

STATEMENTS TO SECURE A SEVERANCE AGREEMENT
You: “I kindly request a severance agreement.”
Company: “We are not prepared (or not willing) to offer a severance agreement.”

You: “I would kindly ask you reconsider. “ Add some or all of the following points:

• “I would like to make this a positive transition from the company.”

• “I would be more than happy to sign a Confidentiality Statement.”

• “I have worked for this company for X months.”

• “My last review was “great.”

• “I have been a team player.”

• “It will take me X months to find a new position. This is an extremely difficult financial burden.”

• “I moved to work for you, I gave up…”

• "Would you like me to sign a confidentiality or non-disparagement agreement?"

START WITH RATIONAL BUSINESS POINTS FIRST
“I would be happy to transition my knowledge to someone.” In this case, you may have to bring up some unique knowledge no one in the company has, can do, or do well. Chances are, the company forgot you know things they would like to get out of you.

PERSONAL POINTS
They do not know what you know. This alone can be enough. But, be careful here. Only use this avenue if things are not going well. You need to creatively tell them you know things they would rather not have public. For instance, do you know what is happening around the office? Do you know damaging gossip? Does the company know this? Do not state, do not even imply any topics, merely bring up the vague idea. For instance, “I am surprised the company doesn’t want me to sign confidentiality statement.” They will ask, “why?” Your response, “I am just surprised given some of the personal dealings within the office.” Or, “given company policy and how some regard it.”

This is one time, when you need to stay in the room. Keep asking your question and making statements. Keep them on the hot seat. Remember the POWER NOTES – don’t get angry at them. The company has walked in with a plan to deal with you. Even after you leave, they may just offer that severance agreement. If you hold your composure, they might say, "That went better than planned. S/he was sure pleasant. S/he made some good points. Maybe we should think about a severance package including X, Y and Z.”

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