How to ask for less hours at work

You should start your document with gratitude towards your manager or supervisor for taking the time to take this matter into consideration. Make sure you know how to spell their name correctly at the beginning of the letter or email. Though this letter or email might get redirected to human resources, it is important to address your manager as your direct point of contact.

• Detail your request for a reduction in hours

You need to be as specific as possible when drafting your reduction in hours document. You should include the number of days you want to work per week, as well as how many hours you would like to do for each day. You might also consider including whether this request is meant to be a permanent reduction in work hours or a temporary reduction in work hours.

• Explain your reasons for a reduction in hours

It can be beneficial to give the reasons you are making this request for a reduction in hours. Common reasons that some employers can be understanding of include:

• Continuing your education

• Needing to spend more time with your family

• Having to take care of a seriously ill family member

• To deal with psychological issues, such as burnout, that come from working too much

If your employer can understand your reasoning, they are more likely to grant you approval for your request.

• State any potential benefits to your employer

If your employer was already preparing for layoffs, your request might be well-received. Other potential benefits include possibilities like your company wanting to cut back on employee hours because its busy season is over, or the company has just experienced a financial loss in some way. Outlining the benefits to your employer should only be done if they are obvious.

• Offer solutions if you think this will pose a problem

You can also include any solutions in your reduction of hours request, such as task delegation to relevant coworkers. Helping them realize how this change can be made easily increases the chances that they will respond positively or at least not immediately dismiss your request. It also shows that you truly care about your job and the company you work for.