Telling your new employer about a planned vacation can be nerve-racking. You don’t want to come across as unprofessional or leave a bad impression.
However, it’s important to communicate your needs and establish trust from the start. Here are some tips on how to tell your new employer about your planned vacation:
1. Be Upfront
The first step is to be honest and upfront with your employer. Let them know that you have a previously planned vacation, and provide them with the dates you will be away. Don’t wait until the last minute to tell them, as this could cause problems for both you and the company.
2. Check Company Policy
Before you approach your employer, check the company policy regarding vacations and time off. This will give you an idea of what to expect and how much time you may be allowed off work.
3. Explain Your Situation
When telling your employer about your vacation plans, explain why it’s important for you to take time off. Maybe it’s a family reunion or a long-awaited trip that has been planned for months. Being transparent about why this vacation is significant will help them understand the situation better.
4. Offer Solutions
When asking for time off, it’s important to offer solutions so that your absence doesn’t impact the company too much. Maybe you can work extra hours before or after your vacation to make up for lost time, or suggest someone who could cover for you while you are away.
5. Discuss Availability
Make sure to discuss your availability before and after your vacation so that there are no surprises when you come back. If there are any urgent matters that need attention while you’re away, make sure someone knows how to reach you.
6. Follow Up in Writing
After discussing your vacation plans with your employer, make sure to follow up in writing. This can be an email or a letter, reiterating the dates you will be away and the solutions you have proposed.
Conclusion
Telling your new employer about a planned vacation may seem daunting, but it’s important to establish trust and communication from the start. Being upfront, checking company policy, explaining your situation, offering solutions, discussing availability, and following up in writing are all key steps to ensuring a smooth process. Remember that taking time off is important for your mental and physical well-being, and a good employer will understand this.