You would think he’d get a little more than that as a «thank you.»

If you’ve been with a company for a long time, it’s customary to receive some send-off to thank you for your years of service. This could take the form of a retirement party, or simply a cake and some drinks to commemorate your hard work and the value you brought to the company. If you were the most valuable employee at the company but only stayed for a year, it would be kind of silly to expect a ceremonious send-off. But if you were with a company for 20 years and were a competent, consistent employee, you bet your bottom dollar you should get a party to honor you, even if it’s for loyalty alone.

Not all companies are great about showing their employees appreciation throughout their careers, let alone when they retire. If your job never gives you a raise, expects the world of you, and never gives you any perks or benefits, you’re probably not going to get a nice cake and a party upon your retirement. If you want to work for a company that will give you nice things, you should leave before you reach the going-away party levels of tenure.