How to Ask to Extend a Work Trip

The first time I asked my boss if I could extend one of our work trips, I was more than a little bit scared to ask. Now that he’s used to me doing it, he virtually assumes I will ask!

Here are some ways you can make it easier for your boss to say yes to you when you want to stay a few extra days at a destination you’re visiting for a work trip.

– Make the extension a weekend.

For example, if you work commitments will be Monday through Wednesday and ask if you can fly out Friday night. That way you’re only using your weekend time.

– Find a cheaper flight. If it will save your company money by you staying a few extra days, then point this out.

– Make sure you are accessible.

Make sure you always answer your phone when your boss calls. This means taking your phone to dinner or poolside. You should make sure you have backup internet service on your phone in case there is an issue with wifi, which there often is at hotels or conference venues.

– Create a reason to go out to a destination early.

For example, going a day early can allow you to make sure the meeting rooms you will be using are up to par and that there will be no technical issues with any presentation systems you’re planning on using. If you carry a company credit card, you can also get your boss checked into the hotel you’re staying at and make sure the room they have put him/her in is acceptable, that the wifi is working etc.

Another thing you can do if you’re on the ground at a destination in advance is check out restaurants that you think will make good venues for schmoozing. There’s nothing worse than arriving at a schmoozy lunch or dinner and finding the tone of the restaurant isn’t right for what you’re trying to accomplish.

– Suggest to your boss why he might like to stay longer too.

For example, if your boss likes to golf, then you might point out a good golf course that gives him a reason to want to stay for the weekend too. It’s easier to suggest you stay if your boss will also be adding some vacation/weekend days to the trip.

– Sell the benefits of schmoozing.

Many times business deals are better done on the golf course or in other relaxing environments rather than on the golf course. For example, you might suggest doing a leisure activity with other key players who are also attending a conference/convention.

– Come back from the trip with ideas.

If you arrive back from a trip extension hung over and tired, your boss will likely be less willing to sat yes when you ask the next time. Make sure you’re in good enough physical and mental shape to hit the ground running when you come back to work after a trip extension. You’re being proactive by asking for the additional time at your destination, so make sure you are also taking the same proactive attitude to your work.

– Create a reason your boss can arrive later.

For example, if you’re attending a conference, you can complete your boss’s registration and meet him on arrival. This might mean he is comfortable flying in the morning of the event rather than the night before. Understand if he/she would rather be at home with their family so you can use this to your advantage.

photo credit: jm3 via photopin CC