[freshbaked]

So I landed a new sous chef position yesterday and I waiting to hear back on the full benefits package and salary, although Chef already told me the range HR is working with! During my interview, they asked me if i had any upcoming vacations, which I replied no. The problem is, I completely forgot about a VERY important court date for a very close friend of mine on August 7-9 ( it is 8 hours away and will last all day on the 8th)... 1) I feel like an ass for forgetting about the hearing 2) my previous manager told my new boss (while checking with foer employees) that i asked off a lot of days while working there. This is true, but it was a job that i had no interest in, i wasnt paid well, and all requests were made within the proper timeframe (which my new boss is aware of). This and possibly a second court hearing, which i wont know the date of yet, is the only thing i have planned until Thanksgiving.

Anyways, how should I bring this up to my new boss without starting off on a bad foot? Not only did i forget about it AND told them i would be available to train other restaurants within that time frame (usual trainer will be out with wifes new baby), but our new concept is currently on track to open August 22 and I will be doing exactly what my old boss said i do... I realize that it would be best to cancel my trip, but that is not an option to me right now. All other advice is greatly appreciated. I was planning on having the conversation next time i hear from all of them, although I did give my chef a heads up via text this morning... No reply.

 

[chefbillyb]

Hi Chef can I talk to you ? Sure come on in. I forgot about a court hearing that I need to be a witness at that is 8 hours away. I need to be available to testify sometime between Aug 7-9th how can I get this accomplished. What is your opinion on how I can work more hour before and after I return so as to not disrupt the operation.  When you put it this way you put the Chef in the equation. This makes him involved in the solution. 

 

[cheflayne]

@ChefBillyB pretty damn brilliant response. Common sense isn't always so common, but that is spot on.

 

[freshbaked]

Hi Chef can I talk to you ? Sure come on in. I forgot about a court hearing that I need to be a witness at that is 8 hours away. I need to be available to testify sometime between Aug 7-9th how can I get this accomplished. What is your opinion on how I can work more hour before and after I return so as to not disrupt the operation. When you put it this way you put the Chef in the equation. This makes him involved in the solution.

Thank you, I appreciate the response. As mentioned, it seems like common sense, I was just stressed about disappointing them.

 

[flipflopgirl]

Shouldn't be a problem if you are on the list to testify.
Obstruction of justice?

mimi

 

[freshbaked]

Shouldn't be a problem if you are on the list to testify.
Obstruction of justice?

mimi

I'm not testifying, just there for support.

 

[kaiquekuisine]

I'm not testifying, just there for support.

I agree with @ChefBillyB, but wait... you´re not going to be a witness...?

Im sorry but IMO then i don´t think it´s necessary to miss work, i think you should call your friend and explain the situation.

If not too keen on missing out on being moral support, i guess a convo with the chef is a must.

Even though IMO most chefs would consider the excuse a bit weak, considering you won´t be testifying and you are just going to be present for support.

I do commend you however on being a good friend.