STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

shopgirl82 · Chanel

Benefits Listed: Vacation Time, Benefits Given: Anything But Vacation Time

squishy · Coach

i don't really have any experience in this matter, but i just wanted to wish you good luck.

NCshopper · Hermes

Maybe you can approach the topic as a "this is our problem and let's work to solve it" perspective. You could say something along the lines of "I'd like some clarification on the vacation policy. I feel a bit confused about it. For example, last September I put in a request for vacation days to be used in December and wasn't notified that it was approved/needed to be changed until a week (or two) before. I felt like I gave reasonable notice for those vacation days and was surprised that I didn't get approved until a week/two weeks before. In the future, how much notice should I give for vacation if I need to make flight/travel arrangements?"

Don't tell them that you quit if this can't be fixed. That'll immediately turn them off and make you seem uncompromising. Let them know you're willing to work with them and hopefully they'll be willing to work with you to make it easier.

ETA: Good luck!

-- Edited by NCshopper at 11:57, 2007-01-05

Elle · Hermes

Are you in a position where you could arrange your own coverage with your coworkers? Mr. Elle has done this in the past - talked previously with a coworker or two and asked if they'd be willing to take his shifts for either immediate trade of one of theirs or for trade at a later date when they need a day off. Then when the manager balks at the request and tries to deny it, their reasons are moot because you've already fixed the problem of staffing. IMO coworkers are more likely to help another coworker (if they're friendly with each other, at least) than help The Boss - so better the request for coverage come directly from those needing to be covered, rather from the boss. From the boss feels just like extra work with no recognition. From the coworker feels like helping someone out, plus you get to trade for your own day off in the future.

-- Edited by Elle at 12:24, 2007-01-05

shopgirl82 · Chanel

no, there's no way that i can get someone to cover for me. me and one other girl pretty much split the schedule and both have other jobs. they can get along without me, it's just a bit harder.

i am just upset because i nickle and dime my vacation and in the grand scheme of things i only have taken two days in six months, they are just saving theirs for a two week vacation. i am the "new" girl so i think that's an issue too, plus, i think it's coming from upper management, not my direct manager.

i actually have a meeting this evening about it...kinda (a performance review)and i won't have the attitude it's all or nothing, i just want them to know that the benefits feel a bit falsely described. i need some quick help so that i know how to respond and so i don't get so emotional.

Suasoria · Chanel

I agree with NCShopper's advice - the attitude is, "Hey, I know I'm the new girl, so what can I do differently next time so my request for a vacation day isn't a problem for you and for me?"

In their defense, maybe way back in September, they expected to have hired a third person by the time you wanted the days off. As time went by they realized that wasn't going to happen. Otherwise I agree that being understaffed isn't your fault, but apparently it is your problem!

All in all, though, this is a big black mark on your employer. Shame on them. Start cruising the classifieds, because two more strikes and they're out.