Newsletter Archives /Today's Career Voice - December 2008
Tips for Asking Your Boss about Taking Vacation
Feeling the pressure from your boss about taking vacation? This is a common issue in many workplaces. Although you may be entitled to a vacation, some bosses just never want you to be unavailable. However, if you have vacation time, it's okay to use it. Follow these tips for how to deal with a boss who never wants you to leave the office.
Check with human resources.
First, verify that you have vacation time available. If your job does not offer vacation time, verify the procedure for requesting time off. Playing by the rules is important, but it's especially key if your boss is giving you a hard time. Checking with human resources also involves a neutral third party so your boss is held accountable if he or she isn't behaving fairly.
Be polite and professional.
When you have checked to make sure you have or can request time off, do so respectfully and with a good attitude. When choosing your time off, try to be considerate of major work deadlines or times that may be inconvenient for your position since certain times might be busier than others.
Stand your ground.
Some bosses don't understand vacations and may never be able to make peace with you taking one. However, if you have vacation time, you may need to simply ignore their bad attitude. If you have vacation time, you are entitled to use it.
Turn off your cell phone and enjoy your vacation.
If you have paid time off, make sure your boss knows you will be unavailable. Ask them if there is anything extra you can help them with a few days before you leave and be clear that you will not be checking e-mails or taking work calls.
Consider a change.
If your boss refuses to give you time off, consider if it is worth staying in the position. Do you really want to work for someone so inflexible in the long term? Sometimes sacrifices need to be made for your career, but if your boss is unreasonable, it may not be worth it.
Hopefully your boss comes around (and learns to relax a little). Either way, enjoy your time away from the office!
