CAREER COACH GO TO GREG

I was just part of a mass layoff due to a downsizing and restructure. The company said it had nothing to do with my performance — my performance reviews have been stellar — but I am not happy with the severance package. After 20 years, I only received two weeks per year of service. After all of the time I devoted to this company I feel I deserve more. What is the best way to negotiate a severance deal?

I am sorry that you’ve lost your job, and I am also sorry to tell you that I don’t think your chances of negotiating more severance are very good. Two weeks per year of service is standard and when you are part of a large downsizing, companies almost always stick to a prescriptive formula and rarely negotiate individual packages. This is for practical reasons including fairness and to avoid potential legal claims. There can be exceptions for unique circumstances, but how hard you worked and how dedicated you were are rarely reasons for negotiation. If that were the case it would be something every employee would likely claim. But, for definitive advice, you should speak to an attorney.

I went on a job interview and I got the feeling my prospective new boss and I just didn’t connect, so I was very surprised when he called me back for a second interview. During that interview I got the same vibe, so imagine my surprise when I got a job offer. I like the job, but I’m not sure I connect with the boss, and my relationship with the person I work for is very important to me. What’s your advice?

I had a professor in college who came across as so distant and tough that many students dropped the class. I stuck it out because I really wanted to take that class, and was curious about how it would be during the semester. He turned out to be one of the greatest teachers I ever had. This also taught me about adapting to different styles and relationships. I’m not sure what you are used to with previous bosses, but if you like the company and the job I say give it a shot. While it’s prudent to pay attention to your gut, keep an open mind about what this boss may actually be like and what kind of relationship the two of you could forge. GregoryGiangrandeisa chiefhumanresourcesand communicationsofficerinthe mediaindustry.E-mailyourcareer questionstogotogreg@nypost.com. AndfollowGregonTwitter: @greggiangrande.