I have a personal appointment on [day] and will need to leave by [time]; I'll make sure my work is covered.
Shift work
Leaving a Shift Early for A job interview
Leaving a shift early for a job interview is mostly about cover. Tell your supervisor early and line up someone for the rest of the shift.
Say what you need, briefly
You can leave for an interview without saying what it's for. A personal appointment is complete and professional.
Sort cover for your shift
On a shift, leaving early hinges on cover. Tell your supervisor as early as you can, and where you can, line up a colleague to cover the rest of your shift so the floor isn't left short.
Example messages
Could I take a couple of hours of personal time on [day] afternoon? I'll finish my priorities beforehand.
Something personal has come up and I need to leave by [time] today; I'll wrap up the urgent bits first.
Mistakes to avoid
Don't leave the floor short without a word. Flag it early and help line up cover for the rest of the shift.
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This page shares wording ideas, not legal or HR advice. Follow your own employer's time-off policy.
Common questions
Do I say it's an interview?
No. A personal appointment is a normal, complete reason.
What matters most on a shift?
Cover. Tell your supervisor early and, where you can, arrange a colleague to cover the rest of your shift.