Get the Upper Hand in a Severance Package

So if you find yourself facing the firing squad, how can you make sure to leave with the best possible package?

For starters, don't sign anything. HR reps often will present employees with documents to sign when they're laid off. Instead of agreeing on the spot, take the document home and mull it over. Chances are you'll be less emotional and you'll have a clearer picture of what the severance agreement offers.

Take a close look at the severance agreement. The key piece of these agreements is the money -- how much you get and for how long. You may be able to negotiate more money, especially if you're a long-time employee and can demonstrate your loyalty to the company. "Every case is different," says Ottinger. "You just need to find the pressure points that work."

Because many companies laying off workers are strapped for cash, you may have difficulty negotiating more money. But that doesn't mean you have to take what your employer is giving: Consider asking for an extension of your health-care coverage, or ask your employer to designate a person at the company who will field inquiries from potential employers on your behalf. Or ask for access to an outplacement firm for resume and interview assistance.

Meanwhile, getting laid off doesn't necessarily mean leaving the company. Ottinger says some firms may be willing to hire laid-off employees on a contract basis. Ask your employer if this is an option.

Throughout the layoff process, be sure to adopt the right attitude. That means curbing the impulse to point fingers or make emotional comments. It also means listening and calmly asking why you were chosen to be laid off. Human-resources professionals are well-trained to offer plain-vanilla reasons, but Ottinger says he's represented many clients who were told they were being laid off for being too old or too sick, both of which amount to employment discrimination.