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By Careers24
Working flexible hours sounds like a dream to a lot of professionals, especially those that are parents. Negotiating for off hours can be tricky as companies generally hire for the times they feel they will have the most business. Here are some ways to improve your chances of success if you plan to negotiate for more flexibility:
Agree to work from home from time to time or be on call.
The thought of not having enough people around when they need them makes employers nervous. Knowing an employee with different hours is willing to come in or tele-commute helps to put them at ease. Tele-commuting is a great alternative for an employee who needs to stay home for some reason like a sick child. Show your boss how you can still be available while you are not at the office by using the opportunity on a day you would normally have asked for leave.
Go above and beyond in your work before presenting the idea.
The deciding factor in your employer’s response may be whether you have earned the privilege of working flexible hours. Someone who does not work during business hours needs to know how to open and lock the office. That is a very big responsibility and your employer needs to know that you are trustworthy.
Point out why someone with flexible hours is a good thing.
There will always be days so busy that all of the work cannot be finished before the end of the normal business hours. An employee who works later can finish those tasks for the 9-5 staff so they do not fall behind.
Mention the cost benefits.
Working flexible hours means having to take less time off. It can also provide the business with someone to communicate to customers who call before or after business hours. These are just two small instances which can add up to big savings by the end of the year.
For more careers advice or further tips on how to improve your working conditions, visit the Careers24 career development column.