Asking for an extension is a necessity that can manifest itself in different situations. Writing a school essay, making a decision about a job opportunity, and completing a job project are examples of occasions when writing a convincing extension request is important. Honestly, tact and consideration towards whoever will receive the letter are essential factors in obtaining more time. Here are the steps to request an extension.
Steps
Method 1 of 1: Ask for an Extension
Step 1. Write the letter in advance
Waiting for the last moment to ask for an extension gives the impression of being unorganized and irresponsible.
Step 2. Determine how much extra time you need
It is important to be realistic and not to ask for too short an extension which could lead to not meeting the delivery date and taking even longer.
- Use where you have arrived to determine how much time you need. For example, if you have worked hard on a school report and are only halfway through, you will need another three days to complete it and an extra day to review it.
- Consider all relevant factors before determining the length of the extension. Maybe you want to wait for an interview at a second company before accepting a job. Take into consideration the second company selection times and whether they require several interviews before giving an answer.
- Consider the time needs of the recipient of the letter. If a professor is uncompromising on the delivery date of an essay or an employer needs to hire someone immediately, your extension request may be rejected or negotiated on a more reasonable basis.
Step 3. Present your situation honestly and tactfully
Explain why you are requesting an extension and how long you need.
- Give a logical explanation for your need for more time. A reasonable explanation for a professor might be that you worked hard on a term paper, but you need more time to do more research.
- Protect your privacy. If you are hesitating in accepting a job offer for marital problems, there is no need for the potential employer to know.
- Avoid negative terms and complaints. For example, stating that it's impossible for anyone to write a decent 10-page essay in a week could create tension between you and the professor. Similarly, do not complain to a potential employer about the salary proposal that is too low, and that you delay because you hope that a better opportunity will come to you.
Step 4. Use the formal letter template
The letter must be well thought out and professional. Use this guide to structure it:
- Heading. Date and your address.
- Recipient address. Full name and address of the recipient.
- Greeting. Be formal. Don't use "Hi Jim", but "Dear Mr. Banks;".
- Body. Get straight to the point. Make your request, and explain your reasons, also express appreciation for their attention.
- Closure. The traditional lock is Sincerely, and it works well when you're asking for an extension.
- Signature and name. If you write the letter by hand, sign it and then type your name in block letters below. If you are writing an email, name and position will suffice.
Step 5. Thank the recipient in advance for considering your request
A grateful attitude will make it clear to the professor, employer or boss that you understand the importance of the delivery date and that you do not assume that you will be granted the extension.
Step 6. Submit your request
Don't rely on traditional mail to send your extension request. Sending it via email immediately notifies the recipient and you can calmly reflect on what to do.
Step 7. Call instead of writing
In an urgent situation or if you do not receive an answer to your email, call to ask for an extension on the phone.
