Wondering what to say

[Rain]

So I go to the Meps next friday, and I was looking to get some suggestions on how to break the news to my boss. I know that he is a vet and I hope he takes the news very well, but there is always the chance that he will not.
Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated

[CPT Burritt]

You've got to tell him ASAP. The only way these things go better is when you DON'T wait. Be proud of your decision, and share it with your boss.

[Rain]

its not that i am not proud.. i am actually reenlisting.. just want to make sure i pass the physical first... is that wrong of me?

[CPT Burritt]

Are you worried that you won't pass?

Tell him exactly what is going on, you're not committed yet, you have the physical, but you're going to join if they will have you.

[Rain]

yes very true.. I am going to join.. and yes i am quiet worried that I will not pass. I have been out since 91 and just a bit rusty.. but nothing that i can't fix.. anyway thanks for the advice

[Ex-CPLnTX]

do what I did.
I told my boss that I am talking to the recruiter for re-enlisting in the National Guard. (Been out since 95, rusty too) I might need to schedule some vacation time for the MEPS and associated things. I will do my best to give as much notice as possible. I know there is a chance I will get deployed, and as soon as I have any information like that I will let you know. When I get my drill schedule I will give you and HR a copy. It might require that I leave early on a friday so I can meet formation in time, however, I will let you know in advance when those dates are. IF anything changes, I will let you know as soon as I can.

Try that.

[priorserv2]

I am currently in the same situation. My boss is ex-SF. He told me to just give him a copy of my orders and let him know my drill weekends once I clear Meps. I have been out since 1998 and am also re-enlisting.

It is never good to wait and always good to be honest.

[plano2001]

Best bet is to be honest, upfront, and TIMELY with your news. Let them know of your decision, when you will need to take off for MEPS, and let them know that (while only verbal notice is required) you will do more than what is required and give advance written notice as early as possible of your orders and expected absences for entry training/active training/future deployments. Never hurts to attach a PDF copy of the USERRA for their reading pleasure.

And make sure to thank them in advance for their understanding and support! :)

[WO1 Quinones]

If it conflicts with your work schedule, then its best to tell. I didnt notify anyone until I knew I was green on the physical and swearing in. I dont like jinxing things. That is just me.

[Rain]

well I told him today.. he took it much better than I was expecting..