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Comments (2)
I've been through layoffs before. It really depends on the company's policy and your employment agreement. Check your documents thoroughly! Sometimes severance packages include accelerated vesting, but it's never a guarantee. Seniority can play a role, but even then, it's not automatic. If possible, quietly reach out to someone in HR or legal – off the record, of course – to get a better understanding of the possibilities. Knowledge is power in these situations, so arm yourself with as much info as you can.
Honestly, don't get your hopes up too high about accelerated vesting. Companies are in the business of saving money, especially during layoffs. While there MIGHT be some exceptions for very senior people, the vast majority of us will lose any unvested equity. Focus on what you CAN control, like updating your resume and networking. Treat any potential vesting as a surprise bonus, not something to depend on. Preparing for the worst-case scenario is the best approach to minimize disappointment.