How to Push Back When PTO Boundaries
Are Ignored
You’ve worked hard for months, hit your professional development goals, and finally booked that much-needed PTO. You’ve set up your out-of-office email, delegated tasks, and made it clear you’ll be unavailable. Then, halfway through your trip, a Slack notification pops up:
“Quick question about a project…”
What do you do? Do you answer? Do you let it slide?
And most importantly, why do so many of us feel guilty about protecting the time we’ve earned? This blog isn’t just about saying “no.” It’s about how to set boundaries and build your workplace skills without guilt. By the end, you’ll walk away with actionable steps to protect your time while still showing up as the professional you are.
Let your manager and team know exactly when you’ll be unavailable and what coverage you’ve set up.
Example:
“I’ll be on PTO from [start date] to [end date]. I’ve delegated tasks to [name], who can handle urgent matters. Please direct all questions to them during this time.”
Set up an out-of-office message:
“Thank you for your email. I am currently on PTO and will not be checking emails until [return date]. For urgent matters, contact [delegate’s name] at [email]. I’ll respond to all other messages upon my return.”
What’s one thing you can delegate before your next PTO? What feels hardest to let go of?
Before moving on to step 2, remember that you have every right to NOT respond. Take time to understand your workplace culture and establish clear boundaries. Ideally, these boundaries should ensure that even if a critical stakeholder reaches out, they respect your time off. However, if you do need to respond, here’s a thoughtful approach.
Even with preparation, someone might still contact you. Here’s how to respond professionally:
To a Manager:
“Hi [Manager], I’m currently on PTO and unavailable. [Delegate’s name] has everything they need to assist. I’ll follow up on [date].”
To a Colleague:
“Hi [Name], thanks for reaching out. Since I’m on PTO, please connect with [delegate’s name], who’s handling this in my absence.”
“During my PTO, I noticed a few tasks were redirected to me despite my delegation plan. I’d like to discuss how we can ensure smoother communication next time so the team feels fully supported.”
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