Bad Look to ask for Location Change in Return Flight?
I’m an incoming intern and need to attend an in person event by flying, and the company already purchased tickets. However, I found out recently that I’m moving forward in a case competition which also happens to have their event the day after.
I was wondering if it would be a bad look/manners for me to ask the company to change my return flight to a different location, even though they acquired it a month ago? If so, I’ll ask them to cancel the return ticket, since I don’t want to overstep my bounds as a mere intern. Would appreciate any advice.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, it’s generally advisable to tread carefully in such situations, especially as an intern. Here’s how you can approach this:
Assess the Reasonableness of the Request: If the change in return flight is minor and doesn’t significantly increase costs, it might not be seen as a big deal. However, if the change involves a different location or a substantial cost increase, it could be perceived as overstepping.
Communicate Professionally: If you decide to ask, frame your request politely and emphasize your understanding of the company’s policies and budget constraints. For example, you could say, “I completely understand if this isn’t possible, but I wanted to check if there’s any flexibility to adjust my return flight to accommodate a case competition I’m participating in.”
Offer Alternatives: Suggest that you’re willing to cover any additional costs or even forgo the return ticket if it’s easier for the company. This shows that you’re considerate of their resources.
Consider the Impression: As an intern, your goal is to leave a positive impression. If you sense that the request might be seen as inconvenient or unprofessional, it might be better to avoid asking and make your own arrangements for the case competition.
Ultimately, the key is to be respectful, professional, and understanding of the company’s perspective. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution to avoid any potential negative impressions.
Sources: How to ask to switch offices?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/then-and-now-compbanker?customgpt=1, Never Been on a Plane Before - Please Help!, Tired of traffic? Take a flying taxi!, AirTags for All My Friends | The Daily Peel | 7/20/22
Did they connect you with travel team directly? If so, prob not a big deal. Just ask and add explanation, and copy deal team. They should be happy you’re moving forward in a related case competition
Now if you’re asking because you want to re route to your boys wedding.. big no
Perfectly fine as long as you precise that you will organize and pay yourself any and other costs during your extra stay.
As long as you ask politely and provide a thorough explanation of the circumstance, I don't think it seems wrong to ask. People typically understand when these situations arise. If they answer no, you can respond that you're adaptable and OK. Compared to requesting them to immediately cancel the return flight, that sounds preferable. The best course of action is usually to be kind and honest.
did this when I had to fly to NYC Thursday and Friday and took a train to DC for the weekend to visit a buddy. I asked for a return flight out of DC instead of NYC and no problems arose
Rem sunt non voluptates aut deleniti perferendis. Perferendis ad suscipit ullam non. Possimus animi sit ea qui accusamus. Nemo sint et excepturi ut odit dolorem cumque consequatur.
Non earum dicta dicta rem in. Possimus iure assumenda et molestias minus voluptas dolorum. Natus qui qui reiciendis eligendi minus asperiores vero.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...