No matter what you do for work, you deserve to be able to take time off. Whether you’re taking a fun family vacation or scheduling bunion removal surgery, all employees should be entitled to spend a few days (or weeks) outside of the office as a reward for their hard work. Asking for time off from your boss can be stressful, even if you have accrued enough PTO to do so or are lucky enough to work for an employer that offers unlimited PTO. No matter what your employer’s policy is for taking time off, it is important that you ask to do so in a way that is professional and respectful, to ensure that time off will be encouraged and accepted in the future.

Here are a few tips for asking for time off, the right way.

Choose the Right Time

Before taking a particular day or week off, look at your work schedule and company calendar to determine which (if any) important upcoming events you might miss while you are away. If you are in a busy season at work, have an important meeting or event coming up, or know that your office is short on staff at the moment, evaluate whether or not it is actually a good time to take off. Try to ask for time off for a period that will be the best for everyone in the office.

Give Relevant Details

While your employer does not need to know every intimate detail about what you are planning to do with time off, offering an explanation as to why you might be gone for an extended period of time (longer than a week) or why you might be doing so somewhat last minute is a sign of respect. Let your boss know what your plans are (as long as they are appropriate) and they will appreciate your honesty.

Use the Best Method of Communication

Determine whether it would be better to ask for time off in person or via an email or text message. While some professionals would advise always speaking to your employer about such important matters face to face, some would prefer that they have it in writing so they can remember exactly how long you will be gone and why – and some would just prefer a quick text or email so you don’t disrupt their busy workday. Choose the method of communication that works best for you and your particular situation.

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