I don't want to quit when there is a realistic possibility of getting severance, but I also don't want to announce my intentions to leave and then have them wait me out.
Is there any way to volunteer for the next round of layoffs without putting myself in that position?
Volunteering for a RIF is very different than asking to be put on a layoff list. I asked my boss to put me on a layoff list because I am leaving for another job, and he told me that I could not be laid off because it would mean he'd lose the headcount.
Never volunteer for vrif, stick it out till they lay you off after that you can get togeter with others and
Sue Xerox for stress and illness. You win bigger.
If you volunteer for a lay-off (vrif)
you will not be eligible to collect
unemployment insurance...
It is sometimes referred to as a "permitted resignation". They will claim it is not available anymore, but rest assured it's exactly what senior management gets. It is treated as a resignation with a severance package. Just remember, asking for this tips your hand that you are looking to resign, and may put you in a pool of disgruntled employees. Unless you have another job lined up, you're taking a risk.
Many of the reductions in the past had VRIFs first. I haven't heard of that in the last few months though.