If you ever find yourself facing a termination or being fired, it's crucial to understand the important steps you should take before signing any severance agreement. From personal experience and cases I’ve helped friends through, the most important advice is to never sign anything on the spot. Always request to take the agreement home so you can carefully read over it and possibly seek legal advice. Many severance agreements include clauses that limit your rights, such as waiving your ability to sue the employer for certain claims, or restricting what a future employer can be told about you. I’ve learned that severance pay usually averages about two to four weeks for every year worked. However, I recommend negotiating for closer to three to six weeks per year depending on your situation and tenure. Don’t be afraid to ask for more—it puts you in a better bargaining position, and the worst they can say is no. Another critical area to negotiate is the non-disparagement clause. This clause often prevents you from speaking negatively about the company, but you should also protect yourself against the company making damaging statements about you. It’s beneficial to include specific language that limits what they can say to references or potential employers. In one case I handled, the company tried to pressure my friend into signing away their rights immediately. By standing firm and requesting written confirmation that they wouldn’t contact future employers negatively or contest unemployment claims, my friend secured a much better severance package and peace of mind. Remember, even if you’ve been fired, the company wants to avoid costly disputes, and often it’s in their interest to settle reasonably with you. Bottom line: negotiation is key. Being polite but firm, asking for terms in writing, and understanding the rights you’re giving up will empower you during a tough time. Having these conversations can feel intimidating, but preparation and clarity make a huge difference in protecting yourself financially and professionally.