MTEC5: Asking for time off lesson

• Engels
• MBO
• Studiejaar 1

How would you ask for time off?

• By phone, in person, e-mail, etc.
• any other ways to ask for time off?

At the end of today's class,

you can name the important aspects around asking for time off.

What is important when asking for time off?
e.g. for vacation, medical leave, etc.
(5 mins)

Ask rather than tell

Since your manager will likely be the one to need to approve your request, ask for time off rather than telling them you’re taking time off. After all, their permission is required.

Even when you are entitled to have days off!

Ask sooner than later

Your request is more likely to be approved if you don’t wait until the last minute to make your request. Some companies have policies requiring a minimum amount of notice, while others do not. Give your manager as much time as possible to arrange the work schedule in your absence.

This, as well as offering flexibility and cooperation (for example offering to work late in advance of your time off), is highly appreciated by companies and might help in your favor.

Provide assurance

When making your request, you can mention that you planned your vacation in such a manner that it will not affect your team, your current project(s), and that you’re available to answer questions while you’re away.

Line up help

Make it easy for your manager by possibly lining up coworkers who are willing to do your work while you’re out. Check with others in advance to make sure your request doesn’t conflict with someone else’s time-off request.

If you relieve headache and work off of your manager/employer, you're likely to receive appreciation or even better, a superior position. 

Ask for time off - practice

What: you're going to ask for time off

How: via e-mail, to: [e-mail]

Help: use the tips you've just learned and your own knowledge. Check your grammar & spelling before you send your e-mail!

Time: 10 mins

Result: you'll have learned how to ask for time off via an e-mail 

Done? = help your colleague (classmate) if he needs help

The e-mail from your manager after you've sent your time off e-mail

Dear [name],

Thank you for your e-mail.

Our company protocol is that every employee must fill in the 'employee time off request form' and use this to request time off.

Enclosed you will find the form.

Kind regards,

Manager

What do you do when your time off request is denied and what if it's accepted?
2 questions = 2 answers!

Your manager returned your time off request form to you...

Dear [name],

Attached in this e-mail your time off request form.

Kind regards,

Manager

Your request is either denied or accepted, reply to your manager's answer.