On one of Dr. Phil's shows he had a person that was mean to wait staff in resturants. He asked " Why would you want to anger the people that serve your food?" So why would management want to anger the workers that would prefer a layoff by keeping them on? Its like being chained to the job. Some folks may want to move but don't want a "I quit" on their resume. Indidvidual consultations? Looks like favoritism to me. Keep general rule that is equal to everyone and possably a multiplier for months with the company. Nobody likes to think that the next person got a better deal particularly if favors are exchanged. Even Bill Clinton accepted "favors".