Sabbatical planning: tips for the time off from the job

If you have decided on one of the numerous options, it is important to To convince boss of the professional break. Because as a rule, you want to return to your old job after the break. And the employer would also like to benefit from the time off.

Don't you belong to professional group of civil servants (e.g. teachers) and employees in the public sector who have a legal right to educational leave, you have to think about valid arguments for this. A portion of sensitivity and the right time are also important.

Often it helps to inquire in advance with the works council about the possibilities and previous experiences of the company with the topic of sabbatical and to inquire in the personnel department whether and which regulations there is in this. Often, you have been employed in the company for at least three years to apply for a sabbatical.

Of course, the supervisor should talk about the duration, content or goals of the time-out, salary and return to work. It is advisable to the main points and the agreement to be held contractually. 

A popular solution for financing a sabbatical is a so-called Time account. For example, overtime, unused vacation and special payments converted into time (e.g. vacation bonus, Christmas bonus, success bonuses) are credited.

If you have saved enough working time, you will receive your salary as usual during the release phase and celebrate the "overtime", so to speak. The advantage: you are continue insured! Sometimes it is also possible to rework missing hours after the sabbatical.

Also a savings accounts is an option to finance the sabbatical. You get less salary in the accumulation phase, where you work full-time. The retained money will be paid monthly during the break.

Another possibility is unpaid vacation and to finance the time off with savings. However, under certain circumstances, insurance cover may be lost. Here you will find than Financing tips of the sabbatical.

In addition to the agreement with the employer, there are of course many more further matters To do: book a flight, take out international insurance, look for accommodation in the destination country, apply for a visa, provide information about the destination country, suspend or terminate contracts in your home country, sublet the apartment, think about what needs to be in the suitcase ...

Fortunately there is professional support of tour operators who specialize in sabbaticals. We at Rainbow Garden Village are happy to help. Are you interested in Voluntary work or an internship abroad in Africa, Asia or Europe, you've come to the right place.

We support you in making a decision meaningful project, take care of some of the organization for you and are your individual contacts during your entire stay abroad! Just give us a call, we will be happy to advise you on how to plan your sabbatical!

Here you find Tips on the topic of sabbaticals at RGV!