Exercise 7.2

• Subject: Request for Leave

• You know that I’ve been feeling burned out. I’ve decided I want to take a three-month leave of absence this summer to travel abroad. I’ve got five weeks of vacation time saved up; I would take the rest as unpaid leave. Just guarantee that my job will be waiting when I come back!

• You decide to grant this request. The following messages are possible responses: how well does each meet the criteria in the checklist for informative/positive messages?

• 1. Subject: Re: Request for Leave

• I highly recommend Italy. Spend a full week in Florence, if you can. Be sure to visit the Brancacci Chapel--it’s been restored, and the frescoes are breathtaking. And I can give you the names of some great restaurants. You may never want to come back!

• 2. Subject: Your Request for Leave

• As you know, we are in a very competitive position right now. Your job is important, and there is no one who can easily replace you. However, because you are a valued employee, I will permit you to take the leave as you request, as long as you train a replacement before you leave.

• 3. Subject: Your Request for Leave Granted

• Yes, you may take a three-month leave of absence next summer using your five weeks of accumulated vacation time and taking the rest as unpaid leave. And yes, your job will be waiting for you when you return!

• I’m appointing Garrick to take over your duties while you’re gone. Talk with him to determine how much training time he’ll need, and let me know when the training is scheduled.

• Have a great summer! Let us know ever now and then how you’re doing!