Asking your boss for more hours can feel a little intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. If you approach it the right way, you can show that you’re committed to the company and ready to contribute more. Whether you need more hours for financial reasons or to gain more experience, learning the best ways to ask is important.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 30 different ways to ask for more hours at work, complete with examples. We’ll also cover when and how to make your request, how to handle responses, and tips for making your request successful. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Right Time and Context
Before you ask for more hours, it’s important to understand your workplace’s needs.
- Look for busy periods: Times like holidays or special projects are perfect opportunities.
- Check your performance: Make sure you’ve been reliable, punctual, and performing well.
- Be aware of company budgets: Some companies may have restrictions you need to consider.
Timing and understanding the company’s situation can make a huge difference.
30 Alternative Ways to Ask Your Boss for More Hours at work (With Examples)
Here are polite, confident, and professional ways to ask:
- “I really enjoy working here. Are there opportunities for me to take on more hours?”
- “Would it be possible to discuss increasing my working hours?”
- “I’m eager to contribute more. Could I be considered for extra shifts?”
- “If there are any extra hours available, I’d be happy to take them.”
- “I’m interested in working more. Are there any additional tasks I could assist with?”
- “I’m available to work extra hours if needed. How can I help?”
- “Is there a way I can support the team by working more hours?”
- “I’d love to expand my role here. Could we explore more hours?”
- “Are there any upcoming projects where I can pitch in more?”
- “If you ever need someone to cover more hours, I’m available.”
- “I have some extra availability. Is there room for me to pick up more shifts?”
- “Could we schedule a time to discuss how I can take on additional hours?”
- “I’d like to increase my hours to better support the team’s needs.”
- “Are there areas in the department where you need more coverage?”
- “Can I be considered for any future opportunities for extra hours?”
- “I’m flexible with my schedule. Could I assist during busy times?”
- “Are there any cross-training opportunities that would allow me to work more hours?”
- “I’m really motivated to contribute more. Could I work additional shifts?”
- “Would it be okay if I checked in regularly for any available extra hours?”
- “I’m interested in growing within the company and would like more work hours.”
- “If there are projects coming up, I’d love to assist more.”
- “Would you be open to me helping other departments needing extra help?”
- “I noticed the team has been busy lately. I’d be happy to offer more of my time.”
- “Could I adjust my schedule to include more hours?”
- “If anyone is taking time off, I’d be glad to cover their hours.”
- “I enjoy my role here and am ready to take on a bigger workload.”
- “Could we talk about the possibility of me transitioning to a full-time role?”
- “I’m ready to expand my responsibilities if it means more work hours.”
- “Can I be trained in another area to open up more shifts?”
- “If there’s ever a need for more coverage, please know I’m available and willing.”
Each phrase is slightly different in tone. Choose the one that best matches your relationship with your boss and your workplace culture.
Crafting Your Request
When asking for more hours, structure your request thoughtfully:
- Be positive and polite
- Show your willingness to support the team
- Align your request with company needs
Example structure:
“Hi [Manager’s Name], I really enjoy working here and contributing to the team. I was wondering if there might be opportunities to take on more hours. I’m available [mention specific days/times] and would love to help out wherever needed. Thank you for considering this.”
Choosing the right communication method is important too:
- In-person: Best if you have regular face time with your boss.
- Email: Good for formal workplaces or if your boss is often busy.
- Phone call: Useful if you’re remote or work irregular hours.
Sample Templates and Scripts
Email Sample 1 (Shift Worker):
Subject: Request for Additional Hours
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to reach out and express my interest in taking on more hours. If there are extra shifts available, especially during [specific days/times], I would be excited to help support the team. Thank you for your consideration!
Best,
[Your Name]
In-Person Script (Retail Worker):
“Hi [Manager’s Name], do you have a minute? I wanted to see if there might be opportunities to work some extra shifts. I’m flexible and happy to cover busy periods or other team members’ time off.”
Formal Email (Corporate Role):
Subject: Inquiry Regarding Increased Working Hours
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to express my interest in increasing my working hours. I am eager to contribute more to our team’s goals and would appreciate any available opportunities. Please let me know if we can schedule a time to discuss this further.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
You may love this one: 11 Powerful Ways to Say Thank You for Your Input Professionally
Industry-Specific Considerations
Depending on where you work, your approach may need slight adjustments:
- Retail: Emphasize flexibility around weekends and holidays.
- Healthcare: Highlight your ability to cover night shifts or emergencies.
- Corporate Jobs: Focus on project assistance or cross-department work.
- Hospitality: Offer to support during peak dining hours or events.
Understanding your industry’s busy times and needs will make your request more relevant.
Handling Responses and Next Steps
No matter what your boss says, respond professionally.
If they say YES:
- Thank them warmly.
- Confirm your availability.
- Continue working hard to prove their trust was well-placed.
If they say MAYBE:
- Ask when you can follow up.
- Stay positive and keep performing at your best.
If they say NO:
- Stay respectful.
- Ask if there are future opportunities.
- Consider other ways to grow, like taking on new tasks or training.
- Handling responses gracefully will leave a strong impression either way.
Bonus Tips for Success
- Be Proactive: Offer specific days and times you’re available.
- Stay Professional: Even if frustrated, remain courteous.
- Offer Solutions: Show how you can help the team, not just yourself.
- Document Conversations: Keep records of your requests.
- Be Patient: Sometimes hours increase slowly over time.
Persistence combined with professionalism can often lead to more opportunities.
Conclusion
Asking your boss for more hours doesn’t have to be stressful. By choosing the right words, being professional, and understanding your workplace’s needs, you can increase your chances of getting more shifts or work time. Use the phrases, templates, and tips in this guide to confidently approach your boss. Remember, your willingness to grow and contribute is a valuable asset to any company. Good luck!