Writing a Letter Requesting a Change from Fulltime to Part Time (with Sample)
Use this sample letter requesting a change from fulltime to part time as a template for your formal request letter. Last updated on January 16th, 2019
There are a variety of circumstances that may necessitate a change from working fulltime to part time. Although it is not always easy to ask an employer for this change, often there is no choice. There are ways this request can be made politely and persuasively to convince an employer that the change will have as little impact as possible. A letter highlighting the positive aspects can be helpful. Before writing the letter, make a list of what parts of the job would be affected by the change. Is it possible to perform the same job duties competently working part time? Some positions within the company, such as managers, may be required to work a certain number of hours. If so, it might necessary to step down and take another position. Opening Paragraph
The opening paragraph should focus on the employee. This should include the title held, how long he or she has worked for this company, and why the reduction in hours is necessary. Make certain the request is being sent to the right person whether it is the human resource department or a supervisor.
The employee should include the contributions they have made that had a positive impact on the company. This should be pointed out in a manner that is polite rather than sounding as if they are bragging. If the contributions resulted in added revenue for the company, include this information.
Reason for the Request
An explanation of the reason for the request should be included as well. It may be that the employee is planning to enroll in school to seek a degree. If this is the reason, and it will be beneficial to the position held, make sure and explain this to the employer. There are other extenuating circumstances that could require a change from fulltime to part time.
This could include the need to care for an elderly relative or children. Since the employer will be considering the request, they may require a reason as to why it is being made.
The employee should assure the employer they wish to continue to work for the company even if they must move from a salaried position to an hourly one. Express the willingness to help train a replacement, if necessary. It could mean the employee must take a new position with different responsibilities within the company. Researching the positions that are available before requesting the change is a good idea.
The closing should include the employee's appreciation for considering the request as well as the opportunity to work for this company. Extend the offer to discuss the situation if the employer has any questions.
Sample Letter Requesting a Change from Fulltime to Part Time Employee’s Name Employee’s Address City, State, Zip Code
DATE
HR person’s Name Title Company’s Name Company’s Address City, State, Zip Code
Re: Request a change from fulltime to part time
Dear HR person’s Name,
I have been employed as the [Job Title] with [Company Name] for 10 years. I am currently planning to [reason for request for part time] begin attending school to obtain my degree in business administration. Due to this decision, I will need to decrease my hours from fulltime to part time.
During the time I have been at [Company Name], I am proud to have helped implement [contributions made that improved profits or work environment]. I will continue to strive to provide the same level of excellence while working part time.
I have truly enjoyed working on the many projects here, but [reason for the request and why it will be impossible to continue to work as many hours] attending school to obtain my degree is going to take up a great deal of my time.
The schedule will be demanding, although the positive aspect is that I hope to use this knowledge to increase my contributions to the company. At this time I do not feel that I would be able to maintain the standards I expect from myself by doing both.
It is my desire to remain with [Company Name], and I am willing to consider part time positions. I am willing to train a replacement for my position, if needed. I will be starting school on [date classes begin] and will complete all paperwork and any loose ends by this date.
I appreciate your support in this matter. If you have any questions, you can contact me at [phone number]. Once I receive my degree, I hope to be even more of an asset to [Company Name].