Layoff Report

Starting to prep for the worst - severance questions

0x1cd8…e6e5

·14d ago·2 comments

Okay, long-time Agilent employee here (over 10 years, diagnostics side). While there's been no official announcement, the whispers and the general slowdown in hiring/promotions are making me anxious. I've started updating my resume and networking, but I also want to be prepared on the financial side. For those who have been through layoffs here or at similar companies, what's typically offered in terms of severance packages? I'm thinking about things like: how many weeks per year of service is standard? Does it include continued health insurance (COBRA subsidy)? Any advice on negotiating or understanding the offer letters would be super helpful. Trying to be proactive rather than reactive if something happens.

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Comments (2)

0x7036…5650

·14d ago

Hang in there. It's smart to be proactive, especially with over a decade at Agilent. I haven't personally gone through layoffs there, but at a similar biotech firm, severance was typically 2 weeks per year of service, plus continued health benefits for a few months. Some also offered outplacement services. Don't forget to look at your stock options vesting schedule if you have them. Hopefully, the whispers are just noise, but being prepared never hurts.

0x532e…653d

·14d ago

I'd caution against assuming the worst just yet. Sometimes hiring freezes and fewer promotions are just part of the economic cycle, not necessarily a precursor to layoffs. However, if you are concerned, definitely review your company's severance policy and talk to HR discreetly. If something does happen, don't be afraid to negotiate. If you have a good performance history, you might be able to push for a bit more than the standard offering. Good luck!