How to request flexible working from your employer
By: Rachael, redwigwam
We recently created a poll on Instagram asking our followers whether their employer has embraced Flexible Working. Whilst 46% said yes, a larger majority at 54% said no. If you would like to work flexibly, there are many ways to go about this, but the easiest way is to be open and honest with your employer.
So, to help you with this, we’ve listed 7 ways you can approach your employer about flexible working…
1. Build a strong case
Why would flexible working be good for you? Flexible working is great for everyone, but why would you specifically benefit from it? You may find yourself taking more breaks when you work longer hours or drifting off out of tiredness and failing to complete tasks. Build a strong business case on why this is beneficial.
2. Be clear - show your employer why and how this would work
When asking for flexible working, you need to be absolutely clear on what you’re asking for. You could be asking for an earlier finish on Fridays, or a 4-day working week. If you are not clear on what it is you want, you won’t receive it. You also need to ask yourself how flexible working would work, and if it should be an option for everyone in the business. Could you and your team rota on a 4-day working week? Come up with suggestions your employer could potentially take on board.
3. Think about how this could benefit your employer
Will you and your team be more productive working more flexibly? Will it help boost your energy levels whilst working & increase your overall job satisfaction? If yes, tell your employer this. It is really important your employer knows the benefits of flexible working, and how a happier team is a more productive team.
4. Show the bigger picture, why will this help the business?
This point is similar to the one above, but it’s important to show the employer that it will not only benefit them, but the business overall. If you’re working in customer service for example, a flexible working schedule could help you be more upbeat and delight your customers even more. Happy employees are then making customers happy, which would lead to better overall customer satisfaction and more business for the company.
5. Be confident and unapologetic
Remember, you are not doing anything wrong by asking your employer for flexible working, don’t feel like you’re doing anything taboo by asking your employer for a chat.
6. Show research on flexible working, and how its benefited similar businesses
Do you have any family members or friends who work a lot more flexibly? It’s a great idea to have case studies ready on how this has benefitted other people in a similar situation and/or company.
If you don’t know anyone, research the benefits of flexible working, there are tonnes on it!
7. Know your rights
This is important, on gov.uk it says all employees have a legal right to request flexible working, not just parents or carers. If you have been with your employer for at least 26 weeks, you are eligible.
Also, if an employer declines, you can appeal the decision!
We hope this has helped you when it comes to requesting flexible work!
