Holiday Entitlements

Another wet July, the likelihood of another wet August, so what do we all want to do? Exactly, escape to the sun soaked med or other exotic locations. The number of out of office messages indicating this mass exodus is, as you would expect, seasonally high.

The question posed recently was "Do I have to give staff the days they request or can I ask them to change plans to meet deadlines and fit in with other staff members?"

As it's usual to provide staff with a holiday request form then I would suggest that they request the days they want and if the time suits the business then approve them. If the time off doesn't suit the business then discuss this with them and agree the changes in writing with them. In writing means amending the holiday request form with the dates you have agreed to.

Unfortunately there are a number of firms not using such procedures. When there is a conflict and things get a little fraught, as was the case with the Partner who posed the question, then it can be difficult to deal with things as there are no procedures or processes to refer back to.

It's always the little things that get in the way. Before you come unstuck, take a look at your procedures and implement any changes required to ensure the continued smooth running of the office.