Comments on: Job Interviews: Is There a Good Way to Ask for More Time Off in Exchange for Less Money?

By: Ronnie Ann

Ronnie Ann — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 16:55:20 +0000

First, not sure what you mean by confused, Ruru. Are you having problems with the training? Remember that this is the time to ask questions and make sure you understand everything (or most) of what you need to learn.

As for mentioning the wedding in December…whether you can get time off depends on the company’s policies, and each company is different. Might be good to at least wait until orientation is over so you get a better sense of things. And make sure to read your employee handbook (if there is one) carefully before mentioning it so you can show you know what the rules are.

A company has every right to say no if the rules clearly give them just cause and/or if the nature of the job would require you to work at that time – especially when you’re so new. So please make sure you’re doing your very best in orientation and showing them you are someone worth accommodating if it does require a little rule bending.

That said, as soon as possible after orientation, sit down with your boss and be polite and honest. And please show that you understand it is up to them and not something you as a new employee get automatically – but that this is very important to you if at all possible.

Good luck in the new job and getting the time off!

By: ruru

ruru — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 15:36:57 +0000

hi ronnie! I need your help again. My sister is getting married in December in another country. How do I bring this up to my new boss without sounding lazy? We are still at the orientation phase, but I am already so confused! THanks!

By: Ronnie Ann

Ronnie Ann — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 18:30:16 +0000

Great suggestion, TEB. A nice way to combine business with pleasure. I like the way you think!

Hope all is well. Feel free to let me know how it’s going, ok?

Ronnie Ann

By: TEB

TEB — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 17:32:16 +0000

Hi! Just to add from my experience, it’s generally reasonably easy to negotiate more unpaid leave during slow times if you have an additional professional development rationale behind it– so if you can find a conference or interesting volunteer opportunity in a place you want to visit anyway, that would be a great way to sell your employer on giving you the time you need to go wherever you want.

By: Ronnie Ann

Ronnie Ann — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 16:38:58 +0000

Hi Julia!

Thank YOU for adding some excellent tips for anyone negotiating a compensation package. I recommend people take a look at some of the useful ideas on Julia’s site.

Ronnie Ann

By: Julia

Julia — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 16:24:18 +0000

This is excellent advice. The topic should definitely only be approached once your value to the employer has been firmly established , preferably once a job offer has been made. You can set up a meeting to discuss the compensation package and be well prepared with your proposal for extra vacation time/flexi time. Have your facts and figures ready and practice presenting it to a prospective employer. Negotiating Your Package.