Negotiate A Work Schedule that Works For You

working woman Once viewed as strictly an employee “perk,” organizations that incorporate flexible work arrangements into their management strategy are finding that they are creating more effective workplaces. Enhanced employee performance, less turnover and absenteeism, and fewer stress-related illnesses are some of the positive results that employers experience when they incorporate flexibility into their environment.

“Flexible work arrangements provide enhanced employee performance while offering an inexpensive and effective way to motivate and retain top talent,” says Rose Cook, president of FlexPro Staffing (FlexProStaffing.com).

Cook proposes the following seven tips to help employees negotiate a schedule that offers work-life balance:

Assess whether your firm’s culture supports work-life initiatives. Flexible work should not simply be a catchphrase at your workplace. Management from the top down must encourage the concept and support work arrangements that actively embrace work-/life balance.

Clearly define the “WIIFM” (what’s in it for me) for your employer. Highlight the applicable advantages to your employer such as cost savings, enhanced productivity, reduced absenteeism, reduced turnover, etc.

Prepare ahead to address your employer’s possible objections. Think about, and prepare for, the best counterarguments to those objections.

Develop a list of your accomplishments. Make sure to emphasize your past value to the company and how you will continue to offer such worth in a flexible work arrangement.

Cite other successful examples of employees using flexible work arrangements in your company or other companies.

Propose the flexible work arrangement on a trial basis. Ask your supervisor to try out the new arrangement for three months, with a formal evaluation at the end of the trial period.

Understand that flexibility is a two-way street. Effective work-life initiatives must work for both the employee and the employer with both entities upholding their agreement.