3 Things to Remember When Asking for Time-Off at the Holidays

As a retailer, holidays were understandably difficult. Even in the corporate office we needed at least a skeleton staff on hand to assist the stores as needed. When I moved to PR, I don’t have to tell you that it’s a 24/7 job, no matter what. News never sleeps; there always seems to be a crisis as soon as you schedule a day off.

As a result, staffing for holidays was crucial. Even if we were not present in the office, someone had to be available at all times. Still, as managers we always wanted to let everyone have at least some time truly “off the grid” and away from work to enjoy the holidays with their families.

So how does one go about asking for time-off, whether at the holidays or any time of year?

Here are 3 things to remember when asking for time-off at the holidays:

• Start early. If you are planning a vacation, it’s best to ask in advance. Remember, almost everyone wants time-off at the holidays. Also remember just because you ask first does not mean you are a shoe-in to get your requested days. Find out if the department or company has a policy about holiday vacations. Maybe half the team gets the week before Christmas, the other half gets the week after. Or some will take Christmas and others take New Year’s; and switch the following year.

• It’s all in how you ask. I’ve noticed a trend among younger workers who simply tell their manager, “I’m taking off on XX dates”. Um, no; you need to ask. Vacation requests will be much better received if you position them this way: “I’d like to take off on XX dates and wanted to see if anyone else in the department had requested those dates. If not, does this work for you?” Simply because you want to take off on certain dates doesn’t meant that you automatically can. It has to work with others’ schedules. Especially your manager’s schedule.

• Confirm that your work will not be left at a critical stage. Anytime someone is away from the office, it’s tough on those left behind. Pre-arrange for someone to cover for you while you’re out. Leave instructions how to handle any hot items that might come up, as well as a list of contacts that may be of help. Have this info ready when you request time off. Your manager will appreciate your forward thinking.

Even if you are asking for time-off during the summer, these tips still apply. Ask early; be respectfully of others in your department and plan your work. Everyone will thank you!