With all the Christmas in July talk, it made me realize that we're already halfway through the year and the holidays will be here before we know it. With that comes the decision about whether or not to work on the holidays. Many say absolutely not, but for others, the benefits are too great to ignore. Could you be one of the many who are going to pass up on the festivities - or at least a good portion of them - in favor of working? Before you give your boss the okay, consider the pros and cons first to help you make a decision.
Pro: Takes your mind off family / lack there of
Unfortunately, not everyone has family to spend time with during the holidays. There are also those who aren't particularly interested in spending time with their family for one reason or another. Working holidays is a good option - or excuse - for those who need another way to keep themselves occupied.
Con: Takes you away from family
On the other hand, if you're one of those who want to spend time with your family, working on holidays means you're not spending time with them - or at least not as much time as you'd probably like. Granted, you may be able to work only part of the holiday, but chances are your plans are still going to be impacted much more than if you didn't have to work.
Pro: It shows you're dedicated to the job
Any good boss is going to recognize that it takes extreme dedication to work on the holidays and he'll be right to think so. You deserve the acknowledgment. However, should your boss thank you or compliment you, don't give a response of "No problem" or "It's okay, I don't have family close by." Just say "You're welcome," "I love the job" or something along those lines. You don't want to seem like you're kissing up, but you also don't want to make it seem like you didn't have anything better to do either. Give a neutral response.
Con: May set you up to work additional holidays
Some bosses make the mistake of thinking that just because you work one holiday that you'll be willing to work them every year. Quite a few assume it means you don't celebrate the holiday so you'll always be free on that day and they'll put you on the schedule. To try to avoid this problem, when you're asked if you can work on a particular holiday, explain that you have plans but you'll be able to work for a few hours. It lets your boss know that you do celebrate the holiday but you're willing to put aside some time in order to work.
Pro: You (usually) earn extra money
I was lucky enough that whenever I worked on a holiday, my bosses were generous with compensation. They gave me an extra bonus or paid time-and-a-half. Should you decide to work on a holiday, your boss may very well be extra kind and decide to pay you well for your time. Consider finding out before agreeing to work to see if it's worth your time. Chances are the money will be a big factor in your decision.
Con: You have no time to spend what you make
Although the money can be good, if you're so busy working, it means that you're not out enjoying yourself. It can be rough knowing you're missing out on holiday festivities while everyone else is enjoying themselves, especially when you could be spending time with family. Quite a few think that all the money earned isn't worth it if it means having to work on a holiday.
It may be tempting to make a split second decision about working on a holiday, but if possible, take some time to think about it. It's even better if you decide before you're asked so you can immediately deliver an answer. Whatever you're leaning toward, make sure you carefully weigh the pros and cons so you decrease the chances of regretting your decision later on.
More from Lauren R:
Tips for living within your budget
Ways to financially prepare for a new pet
