How do I negotiate more time off for the holidays to be with my family? What words do I use?

Please? Pretty please? With sugar on top? I’m beggin ya! The words are secondary. What counts is your reasoning.

Since everyone wants more time off at the holidays, first consider why you should be given special consideration. What makes you or your circumstance deserving of preferential treatment?

Second, how are you going to compensate for your absence? What are you willing to give up? Since your absence will likely increase the workload or pressure on others, how will you return the favor? Will you cover for them on holidays of their preference? Holiday swapping, so to speak?

Most importantly, you must speak to the compelling reasons you’re obligated to work during this time. Unless you satisfy those objections, you appear to be, and perhaps are, self-serving. Two other thoughts. Maybe you can negotiate coming in, and leaving, early some days right around Christmas. That could give you more family time. Also, the Christmas season is 12 days of celebration, culminating in Epiphany on Jan. 6. If your job really requires you to be in around Christmas, perhaps negotiate time off so you can celebrate on Epiphany. It’s a rich tradition and provides a longer window for family time.