Johnny C. Taylor Jr. addresses inquiries regarding human resources in a series for USA TODAY. Taylor, the president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management and author of “Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval,” offers insights and advice. If you have a question, feel free to submit it here.
**Question:** Recently, I learned that certain employees at our company have been granted additional vacation time outside of our official policy. Some colleagues with shorter tenure than me seem to have more time off. Is this disparity in vacation allotments acceptable? – Sabine
**Answer:** Your concern is valid as fairness in vacation policies is crucial for maintaining trust and morale in the workplace. While most companies have standard vacation policies, exceptions may be made based on negotiations, job responsibilities, or retention strategies.
Start by reviewing your company’s vacation policy to see if there are provisions for granting additional time off. Consider discussing this matter with HR or your manager to seek clarity. Questions to ask could include how vacation time is determined, whether factors beyond tenure influence allotments, and if there are opportunities to negotiate extra time off.
While there may be valid reasons for the disparities, if you feel that the distribution is inconsistent or unfair, it is important to address the issue. Advocating for adjustments to your own vacation benefits if needed is appropriate. Approach the conversation with curiosity and respect to achieve the best possible outcome.
Understanding your company’s stance on vacation time will help you make informed decisions about your future within the organization.
More comprehensive than your resume, your LinkedIn profile should provide a detailed overview of your professional background and accomplishments. Ultimately, your LinkedIn profile should strategically position you as the top candidate for potential opportunities. Be deliberate in selecting the information to include, ensuring that each job listed enhances your profile and distinguishes you from other candidates. The views and opinions shared in this piece are solely those of the author and may not align with those of USA TODAY. For tips on how to inspire your team to prioritize collective objectives over individual interests, consult your company’s human resources department. This article was originally published in USA TODAY and offers guidance on navigating inconsistent vacation policies in the workplace.
