How to Write a Festival Leave Application for Office

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Every year as a festival draws near this question crops up in all offices across the country. The question is how do I ask for a leave without making things awkward around me? The answer is surprisingly simple, a well timed festival leave application for office takes care of all this even before anyone asks for it.

In this article you will get all the information you need on writing a leave application for a festival and getting it approved fast.

Why a Good Application Matters

A leave application is not just a formal exercise it is a document of professionalism and it shows how committed an employee is to their responsibilities. Making a thoughtful leave application shows your employer how responsible and considerate you can be even when you’re not there to do your work.

Managers who receive vague leave applications feel burdened, managers who receive timely leave applications feel appreciated and the difference between the two can be just a few sentences and a little forward thinking.

The Right Time to Apply

The timing is just as important as the content of your application. Applying too late will only add pressure on your team and decrease your chances of approval.

One simple rule to follow

For applying for a single day off it is best to apply at least five days prior, for two to three days off it is best to apply one week prior and for applying for a long festival break of four or more days it is best to apply two weeks prior.

The earlier you apply the easier it is for your team to plan your absence and the better your application will be received.

What Every Application Must Include

A good festival leave application must include these following five things

Your full name and designation
Exact dates for start and end of your leave
Name of the festival for which you are on leave
Who is handling your work while you are on leave
A polite end that offers to get the task done before you go

These five things cover all the questions that your manager may have before even thinking of asking them. If you fail to include any one of these you may face unwanted questions and delays in your leave application being approved.

How Long It Should Be

It is a common error for individuals to write too much in these applications. Remember that a leave application is not the place for long explanations, emotional appeals and personal stories. Your manager is busy and likes it short and sweet.

Three to four paragraphs are enough for a good application. You should state your application, provide your dates and mention your handover plan and end it politely. That is all that is required in such an application. A good short application is always better than a long and rambling one.

Tone and Language to Use

The tone of your request should be respectful but natural. You’re not begging for a favor. You’re making a reasonable professional request which you’re entitled to make.

Don’t use language that is too formal or too robotic. Don’t use language that is too casual or too sloppy. Try to find a happy medium, clear, direct and warm. Read it over once before you send it out and ask yourself does it sound like something a professional polite person would write?

Format of Festival Leave Application for Office

To,

[Manager’s Name]

[Department Name]

[Company Name]

[Date]

Subject: Leave Application for Festival

Respected Sir/Madam

I am writing to request leave from [start date] to [end date] on account of [festival name]. This festival holds great importance for me and my family and I would be grateful for your kind approval.

I will ensure that all my pending work is completed before my departure. I have also coordinated with [colleague name] who has agreed to handle any urgent matters during my absence. I will remain reachable on my phone for any critical needs.

I assure you that my leave will not impact any ongoing projects or deadlines. I look forward to your approval and will be happy to assist with any handover process you require.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Contact Number]

After You Submit

While submitting your application is a significant milestone it is also important to remember that you do not stop there. It is imperative to follow up albeit in a polite manner in case you do not get a response in two working days. A gentle reminder to your manager or HR person is totally acceptable and considered to be a very professional move on your part.

Once you get your application approved it is a good idea to keep a copy for your records, in case there is any confusion with regards to your attendance or salary when you come back.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying too late giving your team no time to adjust to your absence
Vagueness with regards to your dates failing to be specific about the duration
Forgetting to mention who will take over your responsibilities
Using a casual tone in a workplace that demands professionalism
Sending your application to the wrong person or failing to involve HR

When You Return

It is as important to return to your workplace on time and inform your team of the things done during your absence as it is to apply for your leave. Do not forget to thank the colleague who covered for your absence either.

This way, the next time you need to take leave it will be easier for people to help you out.

Last Thought

Festival leave is not a favor to your employer. It’s part of your employment contract and you are totally entitled to it. What you need to give to your employer is not an apology but communication, a solid handover and a timely request.

It takes less than ten minutes to write a good leave application. Its professionalism and the trust it inspires will last longer than your leave.

Enjoy your festival. You deserve it.