Requesting a Deadline Extension at Work: Tips and Examples

1. Determine deadline importance. …
2. Decide how to ask. …
3. Provide a specific reason. …
4. Show your dedication. …
5. Offer to share your progress. …
6. Set a reasonable new deadline. …
7. Show gratitude. …
8. Example conversational request.

How to ask for an extension at work

Make an effective deadline extension request by following these steps:

1. Determine deadline importance

Determine the nature of the deadline before formally requesting one. Try asking whether project timelines are flexible. Ask if the deadline is a firm one or if the intention is to finish the project by the end of the month if the deadline is set for the 25th. The response from your boss might provide additional context regarding whether a request for an extension is required.

2. Decide how to ask

Your supervisor’s response to your request could depend on how you go about making it. Send your request by email if that’s how you and the project manager typically communicate.

You can also ask in person or over the phone. In either case, you should also send a follow-up email to confirm the new deadline and any other details you talked about during the conversation.

3. Provide a specific reason

Think about the circumstances surrounding your request for an extension, and be specific in your justification. A good way to start a conversation about a new deadline is to mention that a project requires more research than anticipated or is more complicated than anticipated. Extenuating circumstances or a personal emergency may be acceptable justifications, but always be truthful with your supervisor.

4. Show your dedication

When you request a deadline extension, make an effort to convey your dedication to the project. Inform the client that you need an extra day to ensure the product will meet their standards, that you are awaiting materials to complete the task accurately, or that you will work extra hours to meet the new deadline. Maintaining a positive working relationship with your supervisor can be made easier if you demonstrate to them that you are committed to achieving the best results on the project despite your need for more time. If your commitment is apparent, they might be more inclined to grant your request and believe in you for future projects.

5. Offer to share your progress

Offer to share a finished section of the project or the first draft of a report if at all possible. With the help of this evidence of your progress, you can show your manager and team how far along you are in finishing your work and even give them any resources they might need to start working on their part of the project.

Provide your supervisor with new versions of your work or updates on your progress as you work to meet the new deadline. This method demonstrates how you are making the most of the extra time.

6. Set a reasonable new deadline

You should specify in your request for an extension how long you will need and when you plan to finish your work. Try approaching your boss with a preventative measure included in your request for an extension. When choosing a new deadline, take into account the requirements of the client or your manager as well as the actions you still need to take to finish your work. You could calculate the duration of each step to establish a new, realistic deadline. Additionally, by setting a deadline, you show that you are committed to completing your tasks and uphold your supervisor’s confidence.

7. Show gratitude

Express your gratitude for the extra time and your supervisor’s patience at the conclusion of your request and following the extension. An immediate apology for the inconvenience or delay can assist a manager or client in graciously accepting the new deadline.

When to ask for a deadline extension

As soon as you realize you won’t be able to meet the original deadline, you should request an extension. The project’s official completion date as well as other aspects of the project, such as the capacity of other team members to complete their work, may be impacted by your deadline. By requesting an extension as soon as possible, you’ll give your manager more time to revise the project’s workflow and schedule. You may need to request a deadline extension in the following circumstances:

Example extension requests

You can make your request for a new deadline by using the examples of extension requests provided below:

Example conversational request

“Hello Maria, the budget report this month is more difficult than usual because of the two new marketing campaigns and training new employees. If you’d like, I can send you the portions that are currently prepared, but if you could give me an extra two days to complete the entire report, I’ll be able to provide you with a more precise analysis. ”.

Example formal email request

Subject: Project Extension Request

Dear Mrs. Hernandez,

I’m emailing to ask for an extension on the market research project’s deadline. It’s taken longer than I expected to access the right sources, but several vendors assured me they would get back to me this week. I think the wait will produce a more precise and thorough report.

Instead of Monday, August 12, I’d like to turn in the project on Friday, August 16. If you want to see a preliminary report before that time, I’ll be happy to submit one.

I apologise for the delay and appreciate your patience with this.

Sincerely,
Allison Iwasko

Example email follow-up

Subject: Project Deadline August 16

Dear Maria,

This email serves as a follow-up to our earlier conversation and verifies the revised deadline for this month’s budget report, which is now August 16 rather than August 14.

Once again, thank you for the extension; I value your tolerance and adaptability.

Sincerely,
Jamie Lamasso

How to Request a Submission Deadline Extension

FAQ

How do you ask for an extension over email?

I am writing to you in order to request a deadline extension for [assignment], which was due on [original due date]. Because I have a very busy week and need more time to work on my assignment, I would really appreciate an extension.

What do you say in an extension request?

• Step 1: Accept the fact that it won’t be finished by the deadline.
• Step 2: Write it out. …
• Step 3: Explain, but don’t give too many excuses. …
• Step 4: Set (or negotiate) a new due date.