How to Extend a Work Deadline
A deadline is a time or date set for completing a task. It can also be an event that must happen by this time or date, such as meeting someone at 9:00 pm. Deadlines are common in business and school settings, where they add to the pressure of completing tasks on time, so projects aren’t put off until it’s too late. Jonathan Osler has some great advice for when they need to extend their work deadline.
Here are ten tips Osler recommends of how to extend the work deadline:
1. Talk to their boss.
The first thing they should do is talk to their boss and explain the situation. Unless they are in a position where they can blow off deadlines without any consequences, be honest and let them know what’s going on and that they need a bit more time.
2. Get organized.
Once they have an idea of how much time they will need, start getting organized to make the most of it. This might include creating a timeline or action plan for completing the task at hand.
3. Set smaller goals.
If the original goal was too large, try setting smaller goals that will still allow them to achieve the overall objective. This will help give them a sense of accomplishment as they work towards the final goal.
4. Provide a specific reason.
If they need more time and not just their procrastination getting in the way, set a specific reason for the request. The boss may still be skeptical and reluctant to give them more time, but this will help make their case stronger.
5. Show dedication.
Bosses want to see that their employees are dedicated to their work and will do whatever it takes to get the job done. By extension, this means taking the time they need to complete a task, even if it means working longer hours or weekends.
6. Use past performance as a reference.
If they have a good track record of meeting deadlines, referencing this in the request for more time can help make their case. This also shows that they’re not just asking for more time for the sake of it but because they genuinely need it.
7. Set a new reasonable deadline.
Once they have gotten the extension, set a new reasonable deadline for completing the task and stick to it. This will show that they can meet deadlines when given more time.
8. Determine deadline importance.
Not all deadlines are created equal, and some may be more important than others. Prioritize the tasks according to their deadline importance and focus on the ones that need to be completed first.
9. Keep the boss updated.
Osler recommends keeping the boss updated on their progress, so they don’t think it’s taking longer than expected. If they need more time, explain why and up the new deadline as necessary.
10. Thank the boss.
When everything is completed, thank the boss for giving them more time to complete the task. This shows that they appreciate what was given and that they took full advantage of it.
According to Jonathan Osler, these tips provide a great starting point for anyone who needs to extend a work deadline. By following these steps, they can increase their chances of getting the extension they need while showing dedication to their work.
