HRSINGAPORE Community Discussions
Not using annual leave
QUESTION
Dear HR Practitioners,
We have an employee who applied for annual leave and it was approved.
However, she decided not to take the leave and failed to inform either HR or the management that she was not going on leave.
Now she is insisting that the annual leave which was deducted from her records be reinstated.
How would you handle such a situation?
Thank you
Caroline
REPLY
Dear Caroline,
As far as leave application matters are concerned, HR ensures proper documentation and records of staff leave matters based on data or information.
The onus is always on the staff to inform and update firstly her supervisor for accountability reasons via an email or WhatsApp whenever there is any change or update.
When the update or change has been verified by the supervisor i.e. that the staff did not follow procedure and cancel the approved leave, the supervisor has to inform HR about this.
And after HR confirms this with the supervisor and staff, the leave records are amended accordingly.
It should be reflected and communicated in the handbook that the staff is responsible for:
1. Anything pertaining to her leave matters e.g. application, cancellation;
2. Communicating and writing an email to her supervisor regarding the cancellation of her leave application;
3. Following-up with her supervisor on whether he concurs or endorses the application or cancelation;
4. Working alongside with her supervisor to inform and update HR about any changes and updates to her leave application.
Best regards
Christina
Dear Caroline,
Convey the information to the head of the department (HOD).
This will allow him or her to be involved in the decision concerning the employee.
Explain the policy and procedure with regards to annual leave, highlighting the reasons for the leave and the procedures.
The HOD and the employee should be encouraged to understand the use of annual leave and reasons for the deduction of annual leave.
Regards,
Chris
Recent HR Community Posts
Community
Join the HR Community forum to connect with HR peers, share insights, access HR resources, and enhance your expertise. Elevate your HR career today! Continue reading→
Managing Foreign Worker Medical Claims
Are employers in Singapore liable for medical claims related to mental health for foreign workers? Can they put a cap or co-pay their medical claims? Continue reading→
Withdrawing Job Offers
Craft fair, transparent policies for background checks & job offer withdrawals—compliant, consistent, and ethical practices in hiring decisions. Continue reading→
HR Community Archives
Our archives are a treasure trove of current and previous discussions that provide valuable insights and information to help you make better HR decisions. Continue reading→
Thanksgiving Day
HR executives can use Thanksgiving Day to strengthen relationships within the workplace and create a positive and appreciative atmosphere for employees. Continue reading→
CCTV Policy
If my office has a Closed Circuit Television (CCTV), what policy should I set in order not to infringe on the law? Do I need to display signage about the CCTV? Continue reading→