In my quest to find a new job after being laid off, I need access to materials I created based on my own research and knowledge.

Anonymous

October 10,2022 at 2:40PM UTC

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In my quest to find a new job after being laid off, I need access to materials I created based on my own research and knowledge. Would these be considered proprietary and therefore I would not have access to them?

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AnonymousOctober 10,2022 at 4:15PM UTC
If the information or documents reside on your employers computer or servers then they are the property of your employer.
Lesson learned on this. Never keep personal information or research on a company owned device.
Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterOctober 10,2022 at 4:30PM UTC
I don't know that any of us can answer this question, as the answer will depend on your company's policies, state policies - and what the specific materials contain.
Perhaps consult with an attorney?
AnonymousOctober 13,2022 at 1:29AM UTC
Consult with an attorney and pay a huge hourly rate to get a few files?? Come on, get real!
Julie HumbirdOctober 10,2022 at 4:38PM UTC
In my experience, the only data my former employers would provide a separated employee was a copy of their mailbox. This was heavily dependent on the type of projects they worked on and privacy laws in their country. If they mentioned they had 'personal' information in their mailbox, it was very likely we must give them a copy. I'm sure this varies per organization. The process would typically start with a request to HR.
AnonymousOctober 19,2022 at 1:31PM UTC
The reply above that it all depends on the policies and laws that your company is subject to is correct. If some of the materials were publications or conference presentations, they may be available from those sources.
If it’s just work that you did but that you no longer have access to and there would otherwise be no issue with you personally having a copy, perhaps a former co-worker is willing to send it to you. However, if you work in an industry in which it is closely held intellectual property or would provide an advantage to a competitor, that person would be taking a significant risk.
In any case if you use this as work samples I would heavily redact or even change information.