How to Negotiate a Flexible Work Schedule in a Job Offer
- 1). Write a proposal that includes the hours and days you want to work and how you will successfully complete your work within a flexible work schedule. Note if you wish to complete a portion of your work from your home, and include information about any resources or support --technical, administrative -- you may need from your employer.
- 2). Make a list of anything that might interrupt the success of a flexible work schedule such as required participation in office meetings or temporary increased workload. Devise solutions for each stumbling block such as participating in mandatory office meetings by conference call or Skype and temporarily extending your work hours to accommodate workload fluctuation.
- 3). Create a list of reasons that support your request for a flexible work schedule. For instance, working from home could save the company money in office space. List things that allow the employer to realize the benefits of granting you a flexible work schedule.
- 4). Suggest a probationary period for the flexible work schedule. Your employer may look more favorably at your proposal if he knows he can easily opt to discontinue the arrangement if it doesn't work well. Ask whether you can try a flexible schedule for three to six months and then discuss the pros and cons of the arrangement with your supervisor to decide whether it should continue.
- 5). Present the written proposal as a condition of your acceptance of the job offer. Exercise patience and a willingness to comprise when negotiating the final terms of the flexible work agreement.