Thanks for Hiring Me! - I'm Going to Need Some Time Off

Asking for time off when you are the newbie can be tricky. You don't want to send the message that you are anything less than a dedicated employee and a consummate team player. While there are some hard and fast rules when asking for time off when you're new, some scenarios require a solid strategy.

Let’s look at some of the more common situations new employees encounter and offer strategies that will leave your new employer confident in your professionalism and dedication.

Scenario 1: I booked the trip before I interviewed!  When is a good time to tell them?

This can be a stressful situation. You go into the interview knowing you have this trip planned. It's in the back of your mind. You're nailing the interview and excited about the opportunity, but you're afraid that if you mention the trip they will lose interest.

The first thing to keep in mind is that timing is key. If this is your initial interview, there's really no reason to mention it at this stage. However, if the employer likes you and wants to move forward in the interview process, then it's time to say something. It's perfectly acceptable to mention the impending trip in the second or, if there is one, the third stage of the interview process. We will talk about exactly how to do that later on. 

Scenario 2: I was hired on just before the holidays/summer. I haven't booked a trip, but I want to take some time off. I'm not sure it's a good time.

The holidays and the summer months are times when employees are highly likely to take some time off work. When you are new, this may not be the ideal time. Try to keep in mind that the generally accepted time frame before asking for time off is 3 months. It also may not be a good time if it's during your industry's busy season.

The best way to know is to ask your boss. If you have the flexibility, then use that to your advantage. Asking when is the best time for the team or for your boss shows that you are prioritizing what is best for the company.

Scenario 3: I just found out that I am going to have to take a few days off to…

It happens to all of us at one time or another. Our kid need to have their tonsils removed or we have a funeral we need to attend. Clearly these are emergency situations. Good companies are understanding during these difficult times. To soften the situation, it would be a good idea to offer to make up the missed time. This lets your employer know that while you have to prioritize elsewhere, you are still dedicated to the team.

Regardless of the scenario, there are some hard and fast rules that apply every time you need to ask for time off.  You want to approach the situation with confidence, so being prepared is paramount. Use these tips to ensure your highest level of professionalism.

Timing: Don't approach your boss at a time of peak stress. Pick a time that they are relaxed and otherwise not engaged.

Know the company policy: Before approaching your boss, be sure that you know what your company's policy is regarding time off. If you need to step outside of that policy, you will need to be prepared to explain why. 

Ask. Don't demand: Having a professional yet humble tone will go a long way in getting what you want. Politely asking and being willing to negotiate is far better than being inflexible and demanding.

Ask at the earliest possible opportunity: Do not wait until the day before you need time off. This leaves little time for your boss to prepare for your time off. Unless it is unavoidable, be courteous and as soon as you possibly can.

Follow up in writing: When you have been given the green light on your time off you will need to immediately follow up with a short email that reiterates the agreement. It is also a good idea to send a reminder 2-3 days prior to your scheduled time off. 

Button down your responsibilities: When you are preparing for your time off, be certain not to leave a lot of loose ends. Take the initiative to hem up as many of your responsibilities as you can so your time away isn't any more of a burden on your boss and your co-workers than it needs to be.

All in all, taking time off as a newbie shouldn't be as stressful and awkward as it seems. With some solid planning, flexibility and standard practice professionalism you will be able to traverse this situation with confidence and maintain good standing in the eyes of leadership.