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CoSIDA Career Center
Compiled and provided by the CoSIDA Advocacy Committee
During this difficult and uncertain time, we're seeing unprecedented changes in our profession as numerous athletic communications specialists are being furloughed and/or laid off. If you find yourself in this position, take a minute and take a breath. Try to keep a clear mind as you begin the process of making sure you are taking advantage of everything in which you are entitled. Below are some tips and guidelines for you to use, as well as potential questions you need to ask your human resources department.
Should you be furloughed and/or laid off, remember to stay calm, keep your emotions in check, and do not react in anger or frustration. While this is a bitter pill to swallow, you do not want to burn any bridges or do any damage to your reputation, as this could come back to haunt you when seeking employment.
Please note that employment/unemployment guidelines vary from state to state. Please check with an HR professional to make sure what exactly your rights are in your state.
Questions to ask if fired/laid off/position is eliminated
- How will this termination affect me in the immediate future?
- Is there severance pay?
- Do I qualify for unemployment benefits?
- Would I be eligible for both at the same time?
- How will my termination be shared with potential new employers?
- Can I appeal this termination?
- What options do I have in regards to health insurance/other benefits?
- Is there a difference between terminology?
- “Fired” as opposed to “Laid Off”
- “Fired/Laid Off” as opposed to “Retirement”
- “Position Eliminated” as opposed to Fired/Laid Off”
- What is the actual date of termination?
- Am I eligible to transfer to another job in the school or apply for other open positions?
- Are there mitigating factors in terms of severance if I get another job externally?
- Am I eligible or is there a possibility to be rehired?
- What is the official reason for my termination? (In writing)
- Who else/how many others are being laid off?
- Am I giving up any rights if I accept a severance package?
- Is outplacement help available?
- How does this impact my years of service/being vested in pension plan, etc.
- Where do I find out about unemployment eligibility?
- Where do I find out if I qualify for any federal stimulus programs?
- What types of assistance can I check on for payment deferments (mortgage, loans, rent)?
- Does my university email remain open? If not, will there be a window for me to use or a forwarding device?
- Will IT assist me in removing any personal information from devices?
- Do I have the option to purchase my used computer or phone?
- Do I have to enroll in a phone plan if I am coming off of a university/group plan?
- If your position is eliminated, do you have special rights in the occurrence of the position being reinstated in the future?
- What are your responsibilities in training/preparing your replacement?
- If there is a severance package (pay), do you still consider me as an “employee” while I am receiving the severance?
- If I get bonuses, what is their status? What is the status of all perks?
- How am I compensated for accrued vacation and comp time?
Questions to ask if furloughed
- What is the length of the furlough?
- Am I still covered by my health insurance while furloughed?
- Will I receive any portion of my salary while furloughed?
- Ask how they want you to address the furlough to co-workers, clients, coaches, student-athletes.
- Can I file for unemployment while furloughed?
- How much can I expect from unemployment benefits (Percentage of salary)?
- How do I end unemployment benefits when I return to work?
- Can I preregister for unemployment benefits to make sure my claim is filed right away?
- Should I try for unemployment benefits or use vacation time? And what is the benefit of each?
- What are the different types of furloughs?
- Are you required to work selected days while under furlough?
- What are the state laws in regards to being asked to perform duties while furloughed?
- How does this impact my years of service/being vested in pension plan, etc.
- Will I get a refund on any campus fees while furloughed (parking, meal plan)?
- What are your responsibilities in training/preparing your replacement?
- What is the status of my perks (car, vacation time, comp time, tuition reimbursement) during my furlough time? Do I still accrue vacation time?
- Will Human Resources send me an official, written notice?
- Am I allowed in the office during furlough?
- How do I respond to coaches who contact me about doing work while I am on furlough?
- Does working as a freelancer affect your status in unemployment benefits and other compensations?
Helpful Tips
- Always remove and then erase personal computer files.
- Be prepared to begin a job search/update resume.
- Always remove and then erase information on a school-provided cell phone.
- Keep it professional, especially on social media.
- Several states have laws making it illegal for your supervisor to ask you to work/expect you to work during furlough.