If a poll were to be conducted asking people whether they would prefer quitting their job, or getting laid off, then chances are many people will opt for the former option. A lot of people are of the opinion that getting fired is detrimental for one’s ego, whereas quitting one’s job is more self respecting. Well, what if we tell you a US-based millionaire thinks otherwise? Sam Dogen, a former banker and founder of Financial Samurai, once told CNBC MakeIt that, “Never quit your job. Get laid off instead.”
Are you confused as to what Dogen’s piece of advice could mean? Well, only if you understand about the rationale behind it with an open mind, you will be able to see sense in what he’s saying. Dogen said, “As a previous boss myself, the worst thing that can happen is when an employee of value quits and gives you two weeks’ notice or less,” he says. So, he suggests, than professionals must speak with HR, or their supervisor to express dissatisfaction and request changes.
“You might say, ‘I’m not happy here and would like to make some changes. Ultimately, I’d like to leave if these changes aren’t made,’” he said, adding that this situation can help benefit from professional and the employer. In cases when a company is not in a position to meet the needs of an employee, the latter can always steer the conversation to discuss a possibility of mutually beneficial exit.
“Propose, ‘Let’s figure something out. I’m willing to stay as long as needed to ease the transition, but let’s discuss a severance package,’” Dogen advises. Come to think of it, this way a professional can capitalise on getting a severance which can help provide financial support to a professional. By getting laid off, Dogen points out that one can access unemployment benefits, a severance package, deferred compensation, and subsidised health care—which in turn will provide a substantial financial support for your next move.
What are your views on it? If one thinks pragmatically, then perhaps one will see a point in getting laid off than quitting a job.