How to Ask Your Boss for Time to Learn New Things

by Rachael O’Meara

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?

In researching my book, Pause, and learning from my own experience of figuring out how to take time off for my own growth, I’ve come up with a six-step plan for how to negotiate for personal development.

1. Identify how you want to learn and grow.
2. Own it.
3. Create your vision statement.
4. Connect your goals or outcomes to what the business needs.
5. Prep and practice
6. Make your ask.