r/jobs • u/Whole_Relief8299 • 3d ago
Layoffs Just got laid off via text
I’ve been crying so much over this. I genuinely can’t believe how heartless some people can be…
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u/RuskiesInTheWarRoom 3d ago
This is why a “two week notice” to quit a job should be considered a professional courtesy and nothing more.
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u/Eighteen64 3d ago
That’s exactly what it is
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u/BeeFor20 3d ago edited 3d ago
My company pays out vacation time when you quit, so they are definitely getting a two week notice.
If I have any vacation time at the time, anyway. This December I plan on taking off from December 19th through around January 19th or so.
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u/Cyhawk 3d ago
Check your state laws, you may get it regardless.
edit: and exact wording of your vacation time and how its classified.
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u/BeeFor20 3d ago
I live in Alabama...
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u/RuskiesInTheWarRoom 3d ago
Ooooof, I’m really sorry to see that. Yeah, you’re giving that 2 weeks…
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u/Mediocre-Instruction 3d ago
I didn’t give two weeks notice to a few jobs and I still got my vacation paid out
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u/JiaxusReddit 3d ago
Unless your employment contract states that if you resign without or short of two weeks notice, you would be required to make payment equivalent to your notice period. (Mine is one month)
It's insane that most companies are adding this rule to their contracts, but they can get away with terminating you instantly, job market is hell right now.
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u/NateNate60 3d ago
In many cases the thing they make you sign legally isn't an employment contract because it has some text to the effect of "this document cannot be enforced against us". In that case, it is gratuitous and legally void.
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u/911ChickenMan 3d ago
Do you think they send the Job Police after you if you don't put in a 2 week notice? That's all it is, ya goober.
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u/Impossible_Agency992 3d ago
500+ upvotes though lol. This place is so fucking stupid sometimes.
Also, I’m pretty sure this is attempted murder.
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u/Helismoke666 3d ago
I've been in a career overseas doing contracts where you give a 2 week notice and they fire you. If I give a 2 week notice now I make sure I have 2 weeks vacation time saved up and simply resign.
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u/General-End4503 1d ago
Ill always give 2 weeks, never had a bad experience giving 2 weeks, dont work for shitty companies
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u/dankHippieDude 2d ago
After how i’ve been treated and seen peers treated, ill never give 2 weeks notice again.
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u/MoniqueValley 3d ago
This is a horrible way to handle this but it might be a blessing in disguise. They are obviously having trouble paying people on time which can indicate financial troubles. They also gave you clear evidence that you need to file an unemployment claim.
Good luck OP.
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u/doglovers2025 3d ago
That's unprofessional IMO to send thru a text. Should be a phone call if getting fired or email
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u/Obse55ive 3d ago
This should've been a in person conversation if at all possible. Phone call over an impersonable email any day.
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u/doglovers2025 3d ago
For layoff some ppl know in advance while not others, but I've had that and was done via email. Then if someone is fired that should basically be in person on the spot. If you're a supervisor ya gotta have confrontational skills, sounds like some young person how they don't call anymore and text someone a break-up text 😂
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u/Obse55ive 3d ago
I work remotely so I would understand if it were a phone call. People email resignation letters all the time too but have the balls to not send a text and put in some kind of effort. I'd be pissed and upset that my boss didn't give two shits about me to tell me to my face. When you said text message breakup I immediately thought of this video which used to be popular when I was in high school.
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u/CodenameDinkleburg 3d ago
Personally I’d prefer the phone call. I don’t want to waste fuel and I’d like to be able to plan my day out since I’m off, instead of assuming I’m working all day to only end up winging it.
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u/Skeggy- 3d ago
I’d rather it be in text. Much easier to show unemployment that you were laid off due to no hours.
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u/doglovers2025 3d ago
It's the fact it's a text, not email. They couldn't have done that if they had no cell either 😆. Text is just not professional level
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u/BeeFor20 3d ago
I'm curious what the difference between receiving a text and an email could possibly be?
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u/HugeAnimeHonkers 3d ago
There is literally no difference. Its just Redditors being whiny for some reason.
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u/actualoriginalname 3d ago
Not even sending paystubs. Professionalism isn't their vibe... don't think they give a shit. Also what's the difference in professionalism between text /email? Lol
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u/Recent-King3583 3d ago
But like others have said, it’s good to have it in writing
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u/doglovers2025 3d ago
Yeah that for sure, need proof for UI so guess just gotta keep texting. When I had layoff they tried to dispute saying I quit when they literally said they won't dispute. So B4 it came to the actual dispute part I'm glad got all back pay. The place has constant lawsuits so I told my friend yeah they trying to dispute to save yet they pay their multiple CEO millions each 😆. I had my last check and my letter layoff so my last paystub actually said layoff 😂. How dumb are they trying to dispute that, after proof, that was all. UI actually sent me a letter saying company lied 😆
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u/SixteenTurtles 3d ago
I know it seems hard right now, but just looking at this conversation, you will find something so much better. Probably really quickly.
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u/NekoSmoko 3d ago
I had a job that just took me off the schedule on my day off. I was enjoying my weekend and my coworker asked me if I was okay because all of my shifts were available. I called they wouldn't talk to me. I have no idea what I did but I was no longer employed there. I was management and on top of that they did the same thing to my wife at the same time, she worked at a sister location but was on a brief medical leave because of a surgery. Businesses don't care about their employees.
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u/NoBonus6969 3d ago
One of y'all did something to somebody you just didn't know it. And high enough up to get both of you fired.
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u/NekoSmoko 3d ago
The only thing I can imagine is that someone was intimidated. I had recently moved up after working there for a few years. I had fixed issues my direct supervisor had been struggling with (I was asked to try by him and his prior to moving up). His super had talked about moving me around and my wife had previously worked at our location before I moved up. She transferred to avoid any favoritism and she preferred that location. The higher ups liked my work from what I could tell but my direct wasn't the most qualified. 🤷♂️
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u/NoBonus6969 3d ago
Sounds like your direct was some dumb ass nephew of a higher up. Classic situation in big companies.
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u/rpool179 3d ago edited 3d ago
You and your wife both fired at the same time? One or both of you definitely pissed someone off. Not blaming you or her but that's no coincidence.
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u/NekoSmoko 3d ago
Yup. Just extremely unprofessional all around. But I ended up in a better position because of it
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u/SuperRodster 3d ago
Then they complain about lack of loyalty by employees.
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u/Whole_Relief8299 3d ago
It’s so funny that you say this because they’ve complained about this quite a bit.. Both of the owners are not very nice people. All my “old” coworkers hate the owners/bosses
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u/SuperRodster 3d ago
People don’t quit their jobs. They quit bad leadership. Or like I say daily, leadershit
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u/Cyhawk 3d ago
It sucks, but its better than having to drive 2 hours in rush hour traffic there and back to get fired the moment you walk in the door. At least you saved a ton of time.
Always look on the bright side.
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u/superide 2d ago
Probably the most annoying layoff I've had was being told as a contractor to meet in person with the managers in charge. It was a remote job and the only other time I met with them in person was for the job interview.
The stated intention for the meeting was to re-establish boundaries and division of work because they did not see as much progress as they had hoped. I looked forward to the discussion because I agreed that the pace was too slow.
When I arrived, they had a different tone. The just told me that they chose to end my contract and give me my final pay check. Even though it was just a contract job, it was still annoying to be misled like that.
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u/AlarmedFirefighter14 3d ago
Getting laid off over text is brutal, but it’s also a reminder that companies aren’t families--they’re businesses. The lesson isn’t about you being “not valuable"...the lesson is that you can’t outsource your stability to someone else’s payroll.
Document everything, file for unemployment, and use this as fuel. The best move now is to get leverage--whether that’s a new skill, a better-paying role, or building something of your own. Don’t waste energy being shocked they didn’t treat you better; expect that they won’t. Channel it into making sure the next paycheck is on your terms, not theirs.
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u/Limp-Share-6746 3d ago edited 2d ago
I remember getting laid off last year everybody and their dog was getting laid off it was only a matter of time. On top of that, landlord wanted 3000 even though we paid her already. This was during the time my brother and I where trying to get a house. We had 6000 saved up I was applying left and right because without the job we couldn't get the house.
Eventually I got a job for less pay fuck it. The lady was trying to evict us we had 2 days to pay or pack up and with one week til closing. Told that bitch to go fuck herself got a storage and hotel. 7 months later here we are in are own house. I made it happen my mom is staying with us right now she gots her own room and doesn't have to work she's almost 70.
Moral of the story when life pushes you down you get back up and you give it your all. Fuck it I'd file for unemployment. My freind told me he did and was much happier before working. Enjoy the vacation you'll get a better job soon. 😏
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u/cynTheFledermaus 3d ago
This is why I will never work for another corporation again. They get too much freedom to do that to any employee for any reason. Fucking absurd. Sorry you had to deal with that OP. Get a good cry in, get unemployment, and figure out next steps. You got this ✊
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u/ChocolateBurger9963 3d ago
From the bottom of my heart I hope things get better for you u/Whole_Relief8299.
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u/Rare_Celebration_442 3d ago
Laid off twice in past 2 years. First was 9 months. All savings was used and never was able to recover before 2nd layoff. Now I have to sell my house, car etc..as credit is crap. Not sure what to even do anymore. My mortgage is equal to a full month pay on unemployment. Best of luck to all
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u/Appropriate_Ant8854 3d ago
You're not alone, and I am confident that you will come out of this experience in a much stronger position and continue to thrive in your career! Fridays are often the day when companies let people go.
These setbacks are only temporary. The key is to take the experience in stride, learn from it, and, above all, never lose faith. You didn't achieve your current position by accident, and while these minor setbacks may feel devastating, they do not define you. In time, people will recognize your true potential and what you are capable of achieving.
P.S. I went through a similar experience just as we were expecting our son, and I was on the verge of losing my health insurance and facing financial difficulties - had to sign up for the $600 Obamacare. I used to party and drink quite a bit, making those first ten years of my career extremely challenging. However, in the last ten years, I turned my life around, and it has been nothing but blessings! I now earn more than many of my former bosses could ever make, and I lead large teams the likes of which they'll never get to manage. So take it from me that it's just a minor hiccup and you'll be popping again really soon!
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u/Motor_Aggressive 3d ago
Im so sorry. The fact they were so unprofessional about it says more about them than it does about you
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u/dizzydangler 3d ago
So sorry.... That's brutal, you're better off. A company that disregards their ppl like this aren't worth working for.
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3d ago
😞 I'm sorry. Any platitudes I could offer might not help. But give yourself grace to feel. Then go out and get WAY BETTER. I mean they didn't even remember to pay you. So old job can kicks rocks disingenuous, POS. I wish them good luck cause they going to need it!
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u/pronab58 3d ago
Gutless. Hope you get back on your feet soon. I got sacked 5 months ago. Feel your pain.
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u/sarattenasai 3d ago
-Hello, can I please get paid?
-Yes, you're fired though, how dare you ask for payment for working
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u/Incanzio 3d ago
Bullet dodged OP. It won't make sense now but in 6 months you'll be in a new role, and you'll think back, and this will be a blessing.
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u/Left_Performance_295 3d ago
That employer was not worthy of your time. You will find another opportunity. Focus on moving forward.
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u/Fickle-Bandicoot965 3d ago
Extremely tacky way to be terminated. Definitely hang on to that message for future reference. Good luck. This could be the start of something bigger and better!
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u/CountyBrilliant 2d ago
Getting laid off by text is a new low. You deserved a real conversation, not a cowardly notification. On to better things.
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u/reheight 2d ago edited 2d ago
Business owner here- I’m sorry you’ve had to deal with this, it’s pretty unprofessional to not handle such a sensitive topic over text rather than over a phone call or in person. That being said- companies do suffer just like us people do, work can become scarce, and unfortunately layoffs do occur. The situation is definitely unfair but happens, I hope you find a new or better replacement soon. As for how professionally he handled it- let it be an example of how he handles professionalism internally, it doesn’t sound like you want to work for someone like that.
Best of luck, OP- and Godspeed
Edit: As many others have suggested, you should look into unemployment as times like this is why it exists.
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u/Hatemail375 2d ago
I feel this. I was on my HONEYMOON in Vietnam and woke up to a text that I had been laid off. No matter what a company says about its "culture" the fact is we are all just a line item on an excel sheet and if some financial guy can make the numbers work — you're gone.
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u/Practical_Image_9708 2d ago
Don't be upset. Everything always falls apart right before it gets awesome. Embrace this season and you'll be on to the next before you know it.
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u/arimia 2d ago
I feel your pain. I once found out I was laid off when I showed up to work and the place was empty. Not just empty of people but the entire store equipment/inventory had been moved. It was a winery and I suspect they were too concerned about theft if people knew it was closing to be decent people and let anyone know.
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u/Mysterious-Day8966 3d ago
Im so sorry… it is outrageous. Sending you a hug and truly hope you’re going to get decent human treatment from your future employers from now on.
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u/Nearby-Scheme4231 3d ago
this is so unprofessional and disgusting. if suing wasn’t so expensive i’d say do it. but, i’d definitely file for insurance.
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u/StatisticianJust3349 3d ago
Pardon me, but this is an inconsiderate pos. Smh. I’m so sorry. Something better awaits you.
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u/Ok_Spirit2113 3d ago
I understand how you feel, fuckers want to treat our lives like we’re mere toys. Like we don’t matter, and stupid mfers keep procreating as if they ain’t gonna fall into the same situation
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u/Fearless-Fee4617 3d ago
Reminds me of when Ayoka fired me at Urban Soyal. I've still never received my pay stubs or 4 hrs of PTO
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u/Tall-Extension8276 3d ago
We need to normalize seeking legal action and compensation against employers when necessary whether it’s unfair pay, discrimination, layoffs, etc. Also need to record all conversations with employers for records and/or evidence, or keep a paper trail with text and email communications.
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u/Asleep-Cook-3302 3d ago
Its okay, this is the norm we are in Let go, have a meal that you like and move on. I know, its tough its from a person who’s been laid off twice and in job hunt.
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u/Unfair_Bee_9539 3d ago
Agree. Confirm you are terminated in writing as they can easily turn it around and have you as a quit if you don't continue to ask about shifts. Since they never stated you were terminated.
So much vagueness. "No shifts at this time", "last paycheck" could be interpreted as "your latest paycheck"...
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u/SchoolDangerous267 3d ago
If you were a temporary worker they can do this but if you were a full time permanent employee then you can question them.
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u/Not-Present-Y2K 3d ago
I resigned and my VP asked me to give him a week to make an offer. He let me hang just for fun. I waited 10 days and never heard a peep from him.
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u/NoMuddyFeet 3d ago
At least you can get unemployment, I guess. Nothing in that text indictates you did something wrong. So, if they put a different reason in when you file for unemployment, you can show the text which gives no reason or even suggests you did anything wrong. He's either not getting as much work and can't afford you or else he hired someone else to take your shifts which means he fired you without cause and you deserve unemployment.
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u/comacancerpunch 3d ago
Had a bitch i worked for do the same shit after I found out he was smudging illegals work forms hiring them sending them to get 3 diff ids and socials
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u/Shadow_Integration 3d ago
Time for a follow-up text to request your record of employment and to file for unemployment insurance due to layoff. If they contest it, you'll have this screenshot as evidence.