Mattie Guide: Discussing Flexible Work Options

You'll never get what you don't ask for. 

Going back to work starting to flare your worries and anxieties? Have you considered flexible work options? Thanks to our lovely friend, COVID, more employers than ever are modernizing the way organizations run, specifically remote, hybrid, flex hours, and more. You may have more options than you think, but you have to ask. 

This guide is to help you prepare for a conversation for increased work flexibility if you need it. 

Step 1: Assess Your Needs

Before discussing flexible work options, assess your personal and professional needs:

• Personal Considerations:

• Childcare arrangements

• Your energy levels and time management

• Commute time and how it affects your day

• Professional Considerations:

• Your role and responsibilities

• Team collaboration needs

• Project deadlines and client interactions

Step 2: Research Company Policies

• Review your company’s existing policies on flexible work arrangements.

• Understand your rights under local labor laws, especially related to maternity leave and flexible work.

Step 3: Prepare Your Proposal

• Outline your desired flexible work arrangement, keeping in mind how it will benefit both you and your employer.

• Consider how the flexible arrangement can improve your productivity and well-being.

• Be ready to discuss how you’ll manage your workload and maintain communication with your team.

Step 4: Schedule a Meeting

• Set up a meeting with your supervisor and/or HR to discuss your proposal.

• Prepare to present your proposal confidently and answer any questions they may have.

Step 5: Discuss and Negotiate

• Be open to feedback and ready to negotiate. Flexibility is key on both sides.

• Discuss any trial periods for the proposed arrangement to see if it works well for everyone involved.

Example Scenarios for Flexible Work Solutions

Here are five flexible work options to consider and discuss with your employer:

1. Four-Day Workweek (10-Hour Days)

• Scenario: Adjust your workweek to four days with ten-hour shifts instead of the typical five-day, eight-hour schedule.

• Benefits: This arrangement gives you an extra day each week to spend with your baby or manage other responsibilities.

• Considerations: Ensure that your role can accommodate longer workdays and that you can stay productive during extended hours.

2. Part-Time Work

• Scenario: Reduce your working hours and shift to part-time work for a specific period.

• Benefits: This option allows for more time at home with your baby while maintaining a connection to your job.

• Considerations: Discuss how this change might affect your benefits, salary, and long-term career trajectory.

3. Remote Work (Work from Home)

• Scenario: Work from home 2-3 days a week, balancing in-office days with remote work.

• Benefits: This flexibility reduces commute time and allows you to be closer to home, which can be especially helpful for breastfeeding or if you have a new caregiver at home.

• Considerations: Ensure you have a quiet, dedicated workspace at home and that your role can be effectively performed remotely.

4. Flexible Start and End Times

• Scenario: Adjust your daily start and end times to better align with your baby's schedule (e.g., starting earlier to finish earlier).

• Benefits: Flexing your hours can help you manage childcare drop-off and pick-up times more efficiently.

• Considerations: Be clear on the core hours when you need to be available for meetings and team collaboration.

5. Job Sharing

• Scenario: Share your role and responsibilities with another employee who may also be looking for reduced hours.

• Benefits: Job sharing can reduce your workload while ensuring that your position is covered in your absence.

• Considerations: It’s essential to find a compatible partner for job sharing and clearly define responsibilities and communication methods.

Closing Tips

• Be proactive and start this conversation early.

• Approach the discussion with flexibility and a willingness to compromise

• Remember to document any agreements in writing to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings later.

Life these days are all about balances, so make sure you advocate for yours.