I work for a gym with multiple locations. There have been sweeping layoffs/firing. When I got an email stating that the COO and membership manager were let go I knew that the lower level staff was next.
I knew that I wanted to volunteer for layoffs, on the conditions I collect unemployment, and have a possibility to return to the company in the busy season (winter). I live in my vehicle and have a low cost of living so me loosing the job isn't as bad as someone paying rent.
I had a conversation with the HR manager and said I'd volunteer. He was tight lipped and said he'd keep it in mind.
Fast forward a week or so, another email detailing that 25% of the staff was being “reduced” and we'd find out if we were part of that by a specific date. Like I said I knew it was coming.
The new COO came in person to me the day before the layoffs and asked if I'd been joking about volunteering. I said no. He then asked if I was unhappy, he said I could just quit. I explained I'm not unhappy but I'd happily collect unemployment while others keep their jobs and I could come back in the winter.
He agreed that he'd lay me off and I'd get a letter. I have yet to get the letter, my last day is this Sunday. I emailed him and the HR person about the letter, after no response I texted the COO and he said they were working on it.
I know that due to me and some others being laid off they half ass laid some people off. Offering them to stay employed but they would not be scheduled for hours and would have to pick up shifts.
I'm nervous that I won't get my letter and applying for unemployment will turn into a battle of he said she said. I have the emails stating the layoffs and the text of him saying he's working on it. Is this enough?