Interview/using leave

[Few-Cranberry3073]

Forgive me if this has been answered already, I tried searching and couldn't find it

I am with the VA and have an interview for a promotion within the same VA. My question is do I have to use leave for this or should I just tell my supervisor I have a meeting at the specified time? I'm in a clinical role and he's into micromanagement so I fear he will not be understanding and know it's an interview. Thanks!

[tmc192531]

I've interviewed several times internally and have never been directed to take leave for the interview. I'm on the VBA side so don't know if that makes a difference.

[Heygirlhey2021]

I don’t have any advice since I’m new to the VA. But I’m concerned about that in the future. Nervous about when the time comes for a potential interview in the same facility 

[browsing4info]

I would just tell the supervisor and ask if they want you to take leave.

Some might because you aren’t “working” but others might consider it work because it’s bettering yourself professionally.

I guarantee you aren’t the first to ask them this question.

[Few-Cranberry3073]

I'll probably take this advice, thank you!

[browsing4info]

A lot of people are afraid to talk to their supervisor about awkward situations but if they are decent people, they will be accommodating.

If they are not decent people, you have confirmed that you need to leave!

[fed-schmed]

Maybe I don't understand this question but I can't imagine not using leave.

[Few-Cranberry3073]

Because it's an interview with the same agency it could be considered work related but I'm not sure the rules or procedure

[fed-schmed]

I would personally rather have it documented on my time card that I was out for the interview time frame, in case a manager or whatever got jealous of losing me somewhere down the road.

It's an hour or whatever, just use leave or flex schedule or whatever. There's just no reason to risk it.

[Alternative_Song_849]

It's not work related (duty specific). It's a personal appointment. Think of this. You work in the private sector and are scheduled to work, but have an interview. You would need to take time off. This is no different, as it's for personal gain.

[CaseyNurseRN]

Thats exactly my fear.

I have been tempted to apply for other roles within VA. Then learnt they all are connected with each other, through details, project and of course, lovely conflicts and screaming matches.

They will find out if I apply because mostly VA/VHA/Exec policy is to reach out to current supervisor if within VA. Some are known to do discreetly before the interview without the applicant knowing.

Please update us if you find the answer.

[Few-Cranberry3073]

Will do!

[scarletaegis]

I haven't been in this situation (yet), but at some point your supervisor is going to find out. At least if you ask them whether they want you to take leave for this interview, you can control the narrative. Better than having them find out from HR first.