Counter offer response letter to severance offer template

How to Respond to a Severance Offer with a Counter Offer

When you receive a severance offer that doesn’t fully meet your expectations, responding with a counter offer is an appropriate next step. This letter should be clear, polite, and professional, while highlighting your concerns or requests for a better package.

Template for a Counter Offer Response Letter

Below is a template you can use to create a counter offer letter to respond to a severance offer. Tailor the content to fit your specific situation.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient's Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Recipient's Name],
Thank you for your offer of severance dated [Date of Offer]. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss the terms of my departure from [Company Name]. After careful consideration, I would like to propose the following counter offer for your review.
1. Severance Pay:
I would appreciate an increase in severance pay to [Desired Amount or Duration], which I believe more accurately reflects my tenure and contributions to the company.
2. Health Benefits:
I request an extension of my health benefits for an additional [Number of Months] months following my departure.
3. Additional Compensation:
I am also seeking [Additional Compensation, e.g., outplacement services, a reference letter, etc.], which will assist me during this transition period.
I hope that we can reach a mutual agreement on these points. I believe these adjustments are reasonable given my time at [Company Name] and the nature of my separation.
Please let me know if you are open to discussing these adjustments further. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Key Considerations for a Counter Offer Response

• Keep it professional: Acknowledge the offer and express gratitude for the opportunity to discuss the terms.
• Be specific: Clearly state the changes you’re requesting and the reasons behind them.
• Remain open: Indicate a willingness to negotiate if needed.
• Respect timelines: Provide a reasonable deadline for a response, but be flexible if necessary.

By following this template and offering clear, thoughtful requests, you’ll increase the likelihood of a favorable response to your counter offer.

Counter Offer Response Letter to Severance Proposal Template
Understanding the Key Elements of a Severance Proposal
How to Identify Areas for Negotiation in a Severance Offer
Structuring Your Counter Response Letter
Language and Tone to Use in Your Counter Response Letter
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Responding to a Severance Proposal
How to Follow Up After Sending Your Counter Response

Focus on the specific points of the severance proposal that impact you most. Begin by clearly acknowledging the offer made, while outlining the areas where you believe adjustments are necessary. Pay close attention to details like severance pay, benefits continuation, and any non-compete or confidentiality clauses that could affect your future employment opportunities.

Identify areas where there is flexibility. For example, if the offered severance pay doesn’t align with your tenure or company policy, state your case with concrete examples. Clarify any aspects you want to negotiate, whether it’s the amount of severance pay, health benefits extension, or timing of the payment.

In your counter response letter, be concise and to the point. Structure it logically: open with gratitude for the offer, then explain the adjustments you propose, followed by a request for further discussion or negotiation. Keep your message professional and solution-oriented, focusing on your desired outcomes without sounding confrontational.

Your tone should be professional yet approachable. Avoid aggressive language or emotional appeals. Be clear and factual when presenting your counteroffer, and refrain from making ultimatums. Demonstrate that you are reasonable and open to discussion.

Avoid common mistakes like over-explaining your reasoning or making demands instead of requests. It’s also important not to neglect the importance of timing – don’t delay your response unnecessarily, but don’t rush either. Ensure that you give yourself enough time to evaluate the proposal and craft a thoughtful response.

After sending your counter offer, follow up to ensure it was received. If you haven’t heard back within a week or two, a polite inquiry can help keep the process moving. Stay open to further negotiations and be prepared to respond to any new terms or counteroffers that may arise.