How to ask your boss for time off

Ask about the impact, not about permission.

The situation

You have dates in mind and you are drafting something apologetic. The apologetic version invites scrutiny, because it implies you are unsure whether you should be asking.

The version that works states the dates, shows you have thought about coverage, and asks about the impact rather than for approval.

Why it is hard

Requests phrased tentatively invite the reader to supply the missing confidence — usually by asking questions you did not want. In politeness terms an over-hedged request signals that you consider the imposition large, which primes your manager to treat it that way. Stating dates plainly while showing coverage frames it as a planning conversation rather than a favour.

What to actually write

Two versions of the same message. Same facts, different posture — which one is right depends on the relationship, not on which is “better”.

Subject: Leave request — 14 to 22 August

Hi Priya,

I would like to take leave from the 14th to the 22nd of August.

The Atlas work will be through its final review by the 11th, and Marcus can cover anything that comes in on the Halden account — he has been shadowing it since June.

Anything on your side that makes those dates difficult?

— Sam

Subject: Two days in August — 21st and 22nd

Hi Priya,

I am hoping to take the 21st and 22nd off. Family commitment I would rather not move.

Both days are clear of anything client-facing, and I will get the Halden update out on the 20th so nothing is waiting.

Does that cause you any problems?

— Sam

Common questions

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