30 Other Ways to Ask Your Boss for More Hours at Work (With Examples)

When you’re looking to increase your work hours, the key is to ask with thoughtfulness, professionalism, and clarity. The way you express your request can make all the difference in ensuring your boss views it as a positive and proactive move.

This guide will explore 30 different ways to ask for more hours at work, along with examples and suggestions to help you communicate your request in a thoughtful, polite, and confident way.

Table of Contents

What Does “Asking for More Hours at Work” Mean?

Asking for more hours at work means requesting additional shifts or responsibilities beyond your current workload. It’s a way to express a desire to contribute more to the organization, whether through increased hours, additional tasks, or expanded responsibilities.

Is It Professional/Polite to Ask for More Hours?

Yes, asking for more hours is both professional and polite, especially if you do so with respect, transparency, and understanding of the company’s needs. Framing the request in a way that demonstrates your commitment and willingness to take on more work can highlight your value as an employee. However, timing is important, as is understanding if the company can offer more hours.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Asking for More Hours

Advantages

Increased income: More hours typically lead to higher pay.
Growth opportunities: Taking on additional hours may lead to new responsibilities and career advancement.
Building relationships: More hours mean more time spent with coworkers and supervisors, fostering stronger connections.

Disadvantages

Work-life balance: More hours could strain personal time and cause burnout.
No guarantee of approval: Your request may not be feasible, depending on company needs.
Increased stress: More work might lead to higher stress levels or expectations.

Asking for More Hours Synonyms:

Requesting additional hours
Inquiring about increased availability
Seeking additional shifts
Asking to take on more responsibilities
Expressing interest in working more hours
Offering flexibility for more hours
Requesting expanded work hours
Volunteering for extra shifts
Expressing a desire for additional work
Showing willingness to contribute more time
Proposing an increase in hours
Exploring opportunities for more work
Looking for additional tasks
Offering to assist more
Asking about extra work opportunities
Seeking to enhance my workload
Offering to cover additional shifts
Interested in taking on more hours
Looking to support the team more
Inquiring about available work hours
Expressing interest in overtime
Eager to work more hours
Offering to increase my commitment
Looking to take on more projects
Offering additional time for the company
Proposing additional hours to assist the team
Willing to step up with more hours
Seeking an increase in weekly hours
Volunteering for extra responsibilities
Expressing my interest in more work hours

1. Requesting Additional Hours

Meaning: Directly asking for extra hours in your work schedule.

Definition: A polite way to inquire about the possibility of working more hours.

Detailed Explanation: This is a straightforward and respectful approach to letting your boss know you are open to more work.

Scenario Example: “I wanted to ask if there might be a possibility of requesting additional hours in the coming weeks.”

Best Use: Ideal for a formal or direct request.

Tone: Professional, respectful.

2. Inquiring About Increased Availability

Meaning: Asking if there is room for you to increase your available work hours.

Definition: A more flexible and open-ended way of expressing your availability.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase shows your willingness to adapt to the company’s needs and work around their schedule.

Scenario Example: “I was wondering if there’s any opportunity to increase my availability in the upcoming month.”

Best Use: Perfect when you’re willing to adjust to whatever hours are available.

Tone: Flexible, accommodating.

3. Seeking Additional Shifts

Meaning: Asking specifically for extra shifts or coverage in your work schedule.

Definition: Focuses on expressing interest in taking on more shifts as they become available.

Detailed Explanation: Ideal when you want to work more hours in the same position without committing to a permanent increase in hours.

Scenario Example: “Are there any upcoming shifts that I could take on to help out the team?”

Best Use: Excellent for hourly or shift-based jobs.

Tone: Proactive, helpful.

4. Asking to Take on More Responsibilities

Meaning: Requesting more tasks or duties beyond your current workload.

Definition: Implies your willingness to contribute more to the company’s goals.

Detailed Explanation: This approach is less about simply adding hours and more about demonstrating your commitment to adding value to the organization.

Scenario Example: “I would be happy to take on more responsibilities if there’s a need in the department.”

Best Use: Great for roles where tasks or responsibilities are varied.

Tone: Eager, committed.

5. Expressing Interest in Working More Hours

Meaning: Letting your employer know you’re interested in an increase in hours.

Definition: A gentle way of letting your boss know you would appreciate more work hours, without directly asking.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase opens the door for a conversation, without pressure, about the possibility of more work.

Scenario Example: “I wanted to express my interest in working more hours if the opportunity arises.”

Best Use: When you’re interested but don’t want to seem demanding.

Tone: Subtle, considerate.

6. Offering Flexibility for More Hours

Meaning: Letting your boss know you are willing to adjust your schedule to accommodate more work.

Definition: Demonstrates flexibility and eagerness to contribute to the team’s needs.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase shows your willingness to work around the company’s needs, whether during busy periods or covering shifts.

Scenario Example: “I’m happy to offer flexibility in my schedule to work additional hours as needed.”

Best Use: Ideal when the company has varying work schedules.

Tone: Cooperative, flexible.

7. Requesting Expanded Work Hours

Meaning: Directly asking for an increase in your regular hours.

Definition: A more formal way of requesting that your normal weekly hours be increased.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase conveys your desire for more consistent work and is a great way to signal your dedication to the job.

Scenario Example: “Would it be possible to discuss expanding my current work hours for the next few months?”

Best Use: Ideal when seeking a consistent increase in work hours.

Tone: Professional, focused.

8. Volunteering for Extra Shifts

Meaning: Offering to take on additional shifts willingly.

Definition: Indicates you are proactively stepping up to help cover more hours.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase reflects a proactive attitude and can show your boss you are enthusiastic about supporting the team’s needs.

Scenario Example: “If there are any extra shifts available, I would be happy to volunteer and help out.”

Best Use: Great for hourly or shift-based positions.

Tone: Enthusiastic, helpful.

9. Expressing a Desire for Additional Work

Meaning: Sharing your interest in working more hours without making a direct request.

Definition: A subtle way to express your eagerness to take on more work.

Detailed Explanation: This approach opens up a conversation, allowing your boss to offer you more work without feeling pressured.

Scenario Example: “I wanted to let you know that I’d love to take on additional work if there’s any available.”

Best Use: Ideal for casual conversations or one-on-one meetings.

Tone: Casual, polite.

10. Showing Willingness to Contribute More Time

Meaning: Demonstrating your openness to contributing additional hours if needed.

Definition: Indicates your flexibility and readiness to put in extra time as needed.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase focuses on your dedication and team spirit, letting your boss know you’re available for more work when necessary.

Scenario Example: “I’m happy to contribute more time to the team if it would be helpful.”

Best Use: Suitable for a supportive or collaborative work environment.

Tone: Willing, considerate.

11. Proposing an Increase in Hours

Meaning: Suggest that your current hours be expanded in a formal, direct manner.

Definition: A clear and respectful proposal for an increase in your work schedule.

Detailed Explanation: This approach is best when you feel confident that you can handle more hours and are ready to formally request them.

Scenario Example: “I’d like to propose an increase in my weekly hours to support the team’s current workload.”

Best Use: Ideal for when you have a good relationship with your boss and have already discussed your performance.

Tone: Professional, confident.

12. Exploring Opportunities for More Work

Meaning: Asking if there are any possibilities for taking on additional tasks or hours.

Definition: A way of inquiring about potential extra work, without directly requesting it.

Detailed Explanation: This is a more open-ended way to express interest in more hours, signaling to your boss that you’re flexible and ready for more work.

Scenario Example: “I was wondering if there might be any opportunities to take on more work shortly?”

Best Use: Great for casual conversations or when the workload is unpredictable.

Tone: Curious, open.

13. Looking for Additional Tasks

Meaning: Inquiring about the availability of extra tasks or duties to increase your work hours.

Definition: Specifically asking about more responsibilities to fill up your schedule.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase works well when you want to show initiative by taking on more responsibilities, not just more hours.

Scenario Example: “If there are any additional tasks that need to be handled, I’d love to take them on.”

Best Use: Suitable for roles that offer a variety of tasks or duties.

Tone: Proactive, responsible.

14. Offering to Assist More

Meaning: Volunteering to help out with extra duties or hours.

Definition: A friendly way to show your willingness to be helpful and take on additional work.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase highlights your helpful attitude, showing that you’re willing to support the team wherever possible.

Scenario Example: “I’d be happy to assist more, whether with additional hours or tasks, to help keep things running smoothly.”

Best Use: Ideal in team-oriented or collaborative work settings.

Tone: Helpful, supportive.

15. Asking About Extra Work Opportunities

Meaning: Directly inquiring if there are chances to pick up additional work hours.

Definition: A straightforward request for additional work, focusing on the availability of extra hours.

Detailed Explanation: This is an easy way to ask your boss for more hours while leaving the door open for them to offer opportunities as they arise.

Scenario Example: “Are there any extra work opportunities available that I could take on?”

Best Use: Suitable when you’re looking for extra hours but are flexible about the type of work.

Tone: Direct, inquiring.

16. Seeking to Enhance My Workload

Meaning: Expressing a desire to take on more tasks or hours to broaden your responsibilities.

Definition: Indicates your interest in increasing both your workload and your contributions.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase signals that you are looking to develop professionally by handling more work.

Scenario Example: “I’m interested in enhancing my workload with additional hours or projects to contribute more to the team.”

Best Use: Perfect for employees looking to grow or expand their role.

Tone: Ambitious, proactive.

17. Offering to Cover Additional Shifts

Meaning: Offering to take on extra shifts to help cover for others.

Definition: A generous way to offer help by covering shifts or responsibilities that others cannot fulfill.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase demonstrates teamwork and your willingness to step up when the need arises.

Scenario Example: “If anyone is unavailable, I’d be happy to cover additional shifts and help the team.”

Best Use: Best for shift work environments or during peak times.

Tone: Team-oriented, helpful.

18. Interested in Taking on More Hours

Meaning: Expressing your desire to work more hours at your job.

Definition: A clear and simple way to ask about the availability of additional hours.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase directly states your interest in more hours without any pressure, making it a polite approach.

Scenario Example: “I’m interested in taking on more hours if there are any available in the schedule.”

Best Use: Ideal for flexible scheduling situations.

Tone: Interested, polite.

19. Looking to Support the Team More

Meaning: Expressing your willingness to work additional hours to help the team succeed.

Definition: A statement that communicates a team-first mentality and a desire to contribute more.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase emphasizes collaboration and a desire to work harder for the benefit of the team or company.

Scenario Example: “I’m looking to support the team more by taking on additional hours if they’re needed.”

Best Use: Excellent for team-oriented workplaces.

Tone: Supportive, cooperative.

20. Inquiring About Available Work Hours

Meaning: Asking if there are any additional hours available that you can take on.

Definition: A simple request to find out if there is an opportunity to increase your hours.

Detailed Explanation: This is a straightforward and polite way to inquire about any available opportunities.

Scenario Example: “I was wondering if there are any available work hours that I could take on in the coming weeks?”

Best Use: Suitable when you’re looking for flexibility in your schedule.

Tone: Curious, respectful.

21. Expressing Interest in Overtime

Meaning: Showing your willingness to work beyond your regular hours.

Definition: A direct approach to offering yourself additional work outside of your standard work hours, typically paid at a higher rate.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase specifically targets overtime opportunities, signaling your readiness to work extra hours for higher pay or to meet deadlines.

Scenario Example: “I’m interested in taking on overtime shifts if there’s a need in the upcoming weeks.”

Best Use: Ideal for jobs that offer overtime and for employees who are flexible about working extra hours.

Tone: Direct, focused.

22. Eager to Work More Hours

Meaning: Expressing excitement and enthusiasm about taking on more work.

Definition: A lively way of asking for more hours, showing eagerness and commitment.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase reflects a positive attitude and enthusiasm for the job, suggesting you’re ready and excited to help out more.

Scenario Example: “I’m eager to work more hours if there are any available opportunities.”

Best Use: Best for a situation where enthusiasm and commitment to the job are valued.

Tone: Enthusiastic, eager.

23. Offering to Increase My Commitment

Meaning: Offering to dedicate more time and energy to your job by working more hours.

Definition: A polite and professional way to show you’re willing to contribute more to the company’s success.

Detailed Explanation: This approach shows your boss that you are willing to take on a larger role and are committed to helping the organization.

Scenario Example: “I’d like to offer to increase my commitment to the team by taking on additional hours.”

Best Use: Ideal when you’re looking to expand your role and responsibilities.

Tone: Professional, committed.

24. Looking to Take on More Projects

Meaning: Expressing interest in more work by asking for additional projects to work on.

Definition: A subtle way to ask for more work, not just in terms of hours but through additional responsibilities or projects.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase can work well when you want to show that you are looking for growth opportunities and not just an increase in hours.

Scenario Example: “If there are any upcoming projects or initiatives, I would love to contribute more and take on additional work.”

Best Use: Ideal when you’re looking to diversify your work tasks and gain new experiences.

Tone: Proactive, growth-oriented.

25. Offering Additional Time for the Company

Meaning: Letting your employer know you are available to work more hours for the benefit of the company.

Definition: A considerate and generous way to offer your time and support to the organization.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase reflects a sense of dedication to the company’s success, showcasing your readiness to contribute more.

Scenario Example: “I’d like to offer additional time to help with any upcoming deadlines or projects that need attention.”

Best Use: Perfect for organizations in need of extra hands during busy periods.

Tone: Generous, supportive.

26. Proposing Additional Hours to Assist the Team

Meaning: Suggesting that you increase your hours to help the team achieve its goals.

Definition: A collaborative way to show that you are willing to help the team by working more hours.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase suggests that you’re not just looking for more hours for yourself but also to support the team’s needs.

Scenario Example: “I’d love to propose additional hours to assist the team with upcoming tasks or projects.”

Best Use: Ideal in collaborative or team-based work environments.

Tone: Team-focused, supportive.

27. Willing to Step Up with More Hours

Meaning: Showing your readiness to take on more hours when necessary to help with the company’s workload.

Definition: A direct way to express your willingness to increase your hours without hesitation.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase portrays you as someone ready to step in and help out whenever the company requires more support.

Scenario Example: “If the team needs more help, I’m willing to step up with more hours to assist.”

Best Use: Great when a team is experiencing a heavy workload or tight deadlines.

Tone: Proactive, reliable.

28. Seeking an Increase in Weekly Hours

Meaning: Requesting a consistent increase in your work hours per week.

Definition: A clear and formal way to ask for more weekly hours.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase is ideal for situations where you want a more permanent increase in hours, rather than just occasional additional shifts.

Scenario Example: “I would like to seek an increase in my weekly hours if there’s an opportunity available.”

Best Use: Perfect for those looking for a more stable increase in hours rather than ad-hoc shifts.

Tone: Professional, direct.

29. Volunteering for Extra Responsibilities

Meaning: Offering to take on additional responsibilities to fill more of your time.

Definition: A way to demonstrate your enthusiasm for taking on more than just extra hours—expanding your role within the company.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase focuses on the willingness to grow professionally by volunteering for additional tasks or responsibilities, which could lead to an increase in hours.

Scenario Example: “If there are any additional responsibilities that need attention, I would be happy to volunteer for them.”

Best Use: Best for employees who are looking to expand their skill set or take on leadership roles.

Tone: Proactive, ambitious.

30. Expressing My Interest in More Work Hours

Meaning: A soft way of expressing interest in working additional hours without making a direct request.

Definition: A gentle approach that shows your openness to taking on more work, without demanding it.

Detailed Explanation: This phrase signals your willingness and interest in taking on additional hours without pressuring your boss.

Scenario Example: “I just wanted to express my interest in working more hours if any opportunities arise.”

Best Use: Ideal when you’re just testing the waters or when no immediate opportunities are available.

Tone: Polite, considerate.

Conclusion

Asking for more hours at work doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By using one of the 30 alternatives we’ve explored, you can express your request in a way that feels thoughtful, professional, and caring. Whether you’re looking to increase your income, take on more responsibilities, or contribute more to the team, these alternatives allow you to approach the situation with clarity and respect for your employer’s needs.

By framing your request thoughtfully and using polite language, you increase the likelihood of a positive response, ensuring that your boss views your initiative as a valuable contribution to the company.

Lexy Summer

Lexy Summer is a talented writer with a deep passion for the art of language and storytelling. With a background in editing and content creation, Lexy has honed her skills in crafting clear, engaging, and grammatically flawless writing.