Dismissal and Your Next Steps: Know Your Rights

By: Linda van Orsouw 13-03-2025 10:11 AM
Categories: * CV / Resume, * Daily employment news,

Dismissal & Your Next Steps: Know Your Rights 

Losing your job is never easy, and it can bring a lot of uncertainty. However, it’s important to remember that you have rights and time to make well-informed decisions about your next steps. Whether your dismissal came as a surprise or was expected, taking the right approach can help you confidently move forward. 

What to Keep in Mind 

1. Don’t Sign Anything Right Away 

If your employer presents you with a settlement agreement (VSO), take your time to review it carefully. This is a legally binding document, and once signed, it may affect your rights, including eligibility for unemployment benefits. Consider: 

  • Financial compensation – Is the severance package fair? 

  • Unemployment benefits (WW-rechten) – Does the agreement protect your right to benefits? 

  • Restrictions on future employment – Are there any non-compete clauses? 

It’s always a good idea to seek legal advice before signing. In many cases, employers cover or contribute to legal fees. 

 

2. Already Signed? You Can Still Reconsider 

If you’ve already signed the agreement but have second thoughts, you have 14 days to withdraw your signature. This must be done in writing and sent to your employer. 

Take this time to: 

  • Double-check if the agreement aligns with your best interests 

  • Get legal advice if needed 

  • Explore alternative options 

The agreement becomes final after the 14-day period, so it’s important to act quickly if you want to make changes. 

 

3. Negotiation Is an Option 

A settlement offer from your employer is often a starting point rather than a final offer. You can negotiate better terms, including: 

  • A higher severance package 

  • Garden leave or extended notice period 

  • Legal fees covered by the employer 

A settlement agreement (VSO) waives future claims, so ensure everything that matters to you is included. 

 

4. Plan for Your Next Step 

Before signing the final agreement, think about what comes next. 

  • Are you eligible for unemployment benefits? 

  • Would career coaching or outplacement support help you find a new job faster? 

  • Are there opportunities for retraining or career shifts? 

Although losing a job is challenging, it can also be a chance to explore new opportunities. Taking the time to plan will help you move forward in the best way possible. 

 

We’re Here to Help 

If you have questions about dismissal, negotiation, or career transition support, don’t hesitate to reach out. 

info@togetherabroad.nl 

You don’t have to go through this alone. Let’s find the best path forward together. 

 

0 views
No reactions
Print
Mail a friend
This article is restricted. You have to be logged in to be able to add further reactions.

For an expat moving to the Netherlands, getting the right direction is very important. It's important that one knows which steps and direction to take. Linda is an exceptionally talent counselor, her advice has helped me land a job within a week of coming to the Netherlands. I am grateful for her mentoring and look forward to a great working relationship in the future.

Dr. Hrishiraj S | Clinical Research & Affairs Manager

Together Abroad provided expert advice on personal branding including developing a top-notch, market-aware CV, highly tailored job applications, and approach strategies with potential employers in the Netherlands. Furthermore, I found them be highly knowledgeable in key related fields such as recruitment strategy, immigration law, contracts, labor agreements, and (un)employment benefits. I would recommend Together Abroad to anyone who needs professional help with transitioning to a new career.

A. Aboufirass | Structural Engeer

Linda is a big mind. She thinks about things that the rest normally overlook. The insight she has about the dutch job market can only be achieved through years of experience and persistence.

Her business savvy is complemented by her mastery of understanding the client's needs and requirements. For my career I could say, she was the “Mary Poppins”, who guided me through thick and thin and helped me to land a career in the Netherlands

S. Bhattacharjee | FP&A Manager

If you are going to enlist the services of a "Career Coach" look no further. The only person you want in your corner is Linda van Orsouw. As an expat, you absolutely want to work with a highly skilled and knowledgeable professional who knows their way around the Dutch career/employment/job market. Linda assisted me in writing and positioning my CV, helped me organize and prioritize my list of opportunities, coached me through mock interviews and was there when I got offered a senior position only 2 months later. When asked I will only refer to Linda and "Togetherabroad".

Mr. C. Joubert
Lead Workplace Strategy Consultant 

 

New item