We all want to learn and grow. Improving our skills and being exposed to new ideas not only makes us better at our jobs but makes us happier and more engaged at work. But with a full-time job, it can be tough to find the time and resources to dedicate to personal development. Some people, like me, are lucky to work for companies that encourage and even fund classes, sabbaticals, or fellowships. But if you work for a company that doesn’t have an official policy, how can you make the case to your manager (and the necessary higher ups) to support you?
How to Ask Your Boss for Time to Learn New Things
A six-step plan for making a persuasive request.
November 28, 2017
Vincent Tsui for HBR
Summary.
We all want to learn and grow and it’s great if you work for a company that supports time off for personal development. But if you work for a company that doesn’t have an official policy, how can you make the case to your manager (and the necessary higher ups) to support you? Follow a six-step plan to get the support and resources you need. Start by thinking through how you want to learn and grow and researching opportunities that interest you. Don’t be embarrassed or nervous about asking for this time; own it as part of your commitment to becoming a better leader. Create a personal vision statement that describes who you will become as a result of this investment of time and resources. Connect your goals or outcomes to what the business needs. Prepare and practice for the conversation and then make your ask. Even if you don’t get exactly what you asked for, the time spent forming a logical, careful request will benefit you.