If you want to ask for more hours at work, you must know how to present yourself. If you are able to focus on your strengths and what you can do for your company, it will be easier to convince them to give you more work hours. Be punctual and look for staff to take over if you're not available.
More hours for work
Before you ask your boss for more time, make sure you understand his expectations. Managers expect their employees to be reliable and effective. This means that he or she should expect you to work hard and show dedication to the company. It is important that you are punctual and have enthusiasm for your job. If needed, you will be willing to work extra hours and weekends.
It is polite to ask for more time at work. You should not be defensive towards your coworkers. If things are going well, it is the best time for you to ask. Your voice can have a big impact on whether you receive the extra time you need.
Showing up on time
The most important aspect of time management is being on time. Many people are not consistently on time because they don't have a clear expectation to show up at work and leave by a certain time. They work on everything that comes up, and don't plan for important work. Consequently, when they leave the office at 5 PM, they still have a mountain of work to complete. Instead, identify a time when you would like to leave the office, mark it on your calendar and set an alarm for your phone. This will allow you to make a mental commitment that you will leave work on time.
Find staff to cover the shifts that you don't wish to work
If you don't have the time to cover shifts or you don't have anyone to cover them for you, it's easy to find staff who are willing to step in. But it is crucial to find someone who will work around your schedule. You don't have to just look for someone who has previously offered to cover - ensure they will keep their word.
An availability chart will help you identify who is available to cover the shift and prevent you from wasting time calling employees who are not interested in working that shift. You don't want someone who works only opening shifts to be asked to come in on Tuesday. It's helpful to have a set time when employees will notify managers of any cancellations or other issues.
Communicating your request
Communication with your manager is vital to the success of your request. When approaching your manager, be polite and respectful. The reason you are asking for the benefits and the reasons why you expect them to provide it. Share solutions that you have developed in your work and how they will benefit the company. These ideas can be used by the manager to justify giving you additional hours.
It is important to understand the expectations of your boss before you ask for more hours at work. It is important that you state that your request to increase hours does not need to be urgent. You should include examples and a backup plan in order to overcome obstacles.