HR Glossary

Voluntary Severance

What is Voluntary Severance?

Voluntary Severance is an agreement between an employer and an employee to end the employee’s relationship with the employer. The agreement is voluntary because the employee agrees to leave the employer. The agreement is usually reached when the employer and employee agree that the employee’s departure is in the best interest of both parties. The terms of a voluntary severance agreement usually include a severance payment from the employer to the employee.

What are the benefits of Voluntary Severance?

Voluntary Severance is an agreement between an employer and employee in which the employee agrees to leave their job in return for a severance payment. The benefits of Voluntary Severance include:

  1. It allows the employee to leave their job on their own terms, which can be beneficial if they are unhappy or do not feel they are being treated fairly.
  2. It can provide the employee with a financial cushion as they transition to a new job.
  3. It can help the employer reduce their costs by eliminating an underperforming employee or one who is likely to leave soon.
  4. It can help the employer avoid a potential lawsuit by the employee.
  5. It can help the employer avoid negative publicity.

What are the downsides to Voluntary Severance?

There are a few potential downsides to voluntary severance. First, voluntary severance can be seen as a sign of weakness, or a company’s acknowledgement that it is in trouble. Additionally, voluntary severance can be expensive for companies, as they may have to pay out large severance packages. Finally, voluntary severance can lead to an exodus of key employees, which can be difficult for a company to recover from.

Who uses Voluntary Severance?

Voluntary Severance is used by both employers and employees. Employers may use it as a way to reduce costs, while employees may use it as a way to leave a job they do not like or to receive a severance package. Employees who are offered Voluntary Severance may choose to accept it, or they may choose to negotiate for a better package.

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