Manager wants the same time off as me for annual leave - AIBU?

[hhgvbg]

I requested to book off a week early next year last month. It got approved by the head of my team, and has been put on our formal annual leave system and on the department's calendars.

My manager has now requested the same time off, and says that nobody is off on those days even though I am, I'm not sure why they can't see I'm off either it's not showing properly in the system or he hasn't checked properly. We're not allowed to have time off at the same time due to capacity.

I know I need to message my manager but I'm not sure what to say without sounding rude. I have booked a holiday for these dates specifically, gave a lot of notice and got the time approved.

Just write a simple friendly email:

Dear Manager (use first name!)

Just wanted to give you a heads-up that I have leave booked for W/C DATE. It was approved some time ago (or several months ago). I noticed that you've asked for this time off so wanted to let you know as soon as possible.

Many thanks

Etc.

At this stage, I wouldn't include that your unable to change your plans (which is why you've had I booked so far in advance), leave that for any later emails if they request you change it.

Just email and say.
mum very sorry but I need to let you know that I have already booked the week of that you are requesting and had it approved last month. I have booked a holiday during this week already which I cannot cancel.

end of.

he will be more annoyed if you say nothing and he books it off, makes plans then realised that you had it booked first and he’s got to let people down

So if he's sent one round saying I want these dates, diary looks cool just reply saying can you double check the date as you're leave for X dates was approved a month ago and is on the team diary. Maybe he mistyped a date

I voted you are being unreasonable to not have just instantly said I am off those dates. Just mail him. I don't see what the big deal is. Everyone makes mistakes, that's why they have obviously set up the system to check before you request.

I would put money on the mess up being OP’s end.

Just email....'sorry....I booked this last ??? October....its on the system and has been for six weeks'

I would say just that.
That you have given plenty of notice, it's been approved by XY and Z. So sorry I am off that week.

@hhgvbg
Is everything sorted now?