How to communicate taking days off very frequently (for interview purpose)?

Question

As I'm currently working full time and interviewing with 2 firms at the same time, I have ran into a situation where I need to take “at least one half day off” per week. I try to avoid taking case interviews during the middle of my work. Could you please show some thoughts on how to communicate reasons of taking days off so frequently?

My current thought is to try to arrange 1 interview per week in the morning, so that I can take a half day off every week to complete all 4 case interviews at the 2 firms. Regarding the reasoning, the only reason I can think of is due to “medical reasons”. As my boss is a westerner, due to cultural differences I'm also wondering the “level of depth” of this medical reason I should explain to my boss. What's the right balance of giving a reasonable excuse of frequent days off and not over-explaining too much to a westerner?

Appreciate the advice!

Answer 1

Hi there,

I think you're taking a good approach here.

Ultimately, I would say “personal” reasons as sometimes medical reasons will then require a medical certificate. Normally, people won't press further as long as you're giving advance notice and still getting your work done.

Make sure to block it out of your calendar. Additionally, don't forget that everyone needs an eye check, physical exam, and teeth cleaning every 6-12 months so this isn't anything out of the ordinary!

Answer 2

Hey there,

are you currently an intern or in a full-time position? If you are an intern, be upfront and transparent about it. I would not recommend to use any other reasoning. Ask your supervisor for a short talk and explain to him that you are currently interviewing for your next intern/full time position and what would be the best way to fit that into the (project?) schedule.

Also not quite sure about the cultural differences you imply here. If anything, check Hofstedes cultural framework and check if your supervisor is from a country that tends to lean towards more direct communication instead of indirect. If so, the suggested approach above is even more valid.

Let me know if you need any further guidance.

Best

Torben

Answer 3

Schedule interviews as per below (whichever is feasible) to minimise disruption to work day. Request HR to consider accommodating you:

early morning (830am)
lunch time slots
late evenings (after 5pm)
Friday afternoons

Take a sick day here there and that's okay, doctor appointment, personal appointments etc- dont over do this obviously.

Answer 4

Hi there,

I think you are right in suggesting medical, personal or family reasons for your absence. However, if you can afford being transparent with your current employer and you have a good relationship, I would consider telling them the truth.

To comment on the cultural difference and ‘westerner‘ dimension, we would need to know more about your specific context.

Best

Stephan

Answer 5

Usually, if you mention medical reasons, and do not give much detail, people will avoid asking you for further information, as they tend to respect your privacy.

(of course, be prepared to detail if necessary - something like physiotherapy can be a good excuse).