"There were certain aspects of the package which I did not like," said Villaverde.
Kirk Nemer of careerprotection.com says Raul was smart to fight.
"A severance offer is just like an employment offer. It's negotiable and a lot of employees don't realize that," said Nemer. "However, the severance pay packages are not as generous. That's why it's so important, more than ever, for employees to negotiate."
Nemer says don't sign anything immediately. Absorb the shock and take the time to completely understand what's on the table. The documents are written for the company's benefit, so you may want to consult a lawyer.
"There are many restrictions, covenants such as non-compete, non-solicitation clause, non-disparagement. If the employee doesn't know what they're signing goes forward, they may have trouble in the next few years," said Nemer.
Know that you can negotiate for more than the dollar amount.
"There are many elements to a severance package. Many companies offer outplacement or transitional services, where they hire a firm to find you a new job. Many companies will pay your health and dental and vision insurance and disability insurance. Continue that," said Nemer.
You can even ask to keep your cell phone or company computer to help find your next job. It's in the business's best interest to do what they can as you go.
"If the word goes out that it's a bad company and you treat employees very poorly on the way out, you're going to have a tough time picking up employees in the future," said Nemer.
Raul won his fight and offers advice for others who think they may soon be in a similar scenario.
"Know your situation before the severance package is handed to you. Try to understand what your value is to the organization," said Villaverde.
Not all companies are required to offer severance, but all must follow specific laws based on how many workers they employ. The longer you've worked and the higher your position in the company, the more bargaining power you have.
And if you're over 40 and are laid off, you also have the right to additional information to make sure you were not discriminated against on the way out.
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