Embracing a New Dawn of Workplace Flexibility in the UK
If you’re UK-based, it’s time to get ready because there’s a new dawn in the flexible working landscape. The Flexible Working (Amendment) Regulations 2023 is coming into force in April 2024. How we work is about to get completely redefined. There’s no more waiting 26 weeks to request the schedule you need. You can now make a flexible working request on your first day of the job.
Understanding the Change
Flexible working isn’t confined to where we work; it also encompasses how and when we work. This could mean part-time schedules, compressed hours, staggered start times, or of course, working from home.
Here’s the breakdown:
- You can now make two flexible working requests within a 12-month period (up from one previously).
- Employers will have just two months, instead of three, to respond to your requests.
- Expect a consultation from your employer if they’re considering rejecting your request, with their reasons why
- You no longer have to justify how your flexible work affects your employer
- And don’t forget – you’re entitled to request flexible working from day one of your employment.
Now, just because you can make a flexible working request from day 1 of your employment (and you can now make two flexible working requests per year), employers can still reject your request if they feel it doesn’t align with business needs. So, this blog post will make sure you know how to make your flexible working request count – and one that your employer is more likely to say a huge YES to!
How to draft a flexible working request
When you’re drafting your flexible working request, remember it’s not just about what you need; it’s also about how it can benefit your team and align with your company’s goals, so although you no longer have to justify the effect your flexible working schedule will have on the company, it’s good practice to consider it so you can overcome any objections your employer may have. Tom Stenner-Evans, an Employment Lawyer and Partner at Thrive Law, suggests presenting a well-thought-out plan, anticipating potential concerns your employer might have, and suggesting practical solutions. Show how your desired schedule can maintain or improve productivity, communication, and quality of work. You could also highlight the mutual benefits of flexible working: enhanced employee well-being, loyalty, and a broader talent pool.
Laurie Macpherson, a renowned career coach, emphasises the importance of clarity and confidence when making a flexible working request. Here are some of her key tips when structuring your request:
Know What You Want: Before making a request, clearly understand your desired flexible working pattern. This could involve part-time hours, working from home, or staggered start times. Knowing your needs helps you formulate a persuasive request.
Present a Win-Win Scenario: When requesting flexible working, frame it as a negotiation in which both you and your employer benefit. Highlight how the proposed arrangement can maintain or improve your productivity and overall work quality. Consider how it aligns with the company’s goals and operations.
Be Prepared to Compromise: Flexibility can mean different things to different people. It’s crucial to be open to negotiation and find a middle ground that suits both your needs and the employer’s.
Communication is Key: Clear communication about your needs and the potential benefits to the employer is essential. Avoid focusing on personal benefits like cost savings; instead, emphasise the professional advantages to your employer if they say yes.
Understand the Employer’s Perspective: Be prepared for a conversation about the business implications of your request. If you’re proposing something unique, like working from a different location, do the necessary research on legal and tax implications to make it easier for your employer to consider your request.
Formalise the Agreement: Once an agreement is reached, ensure it’s formalised in your contract. This provides security and clarity for both parties, especially if there’s a change in management or company policy.
A flexible working arrangement works for both parties when it strikes a perfect dynamic between your needs and your employer’s requirements, paving the way for a dynamic, productive, and thriving working relationship.
Make your flexible working request count. Grab my expertly designed, FREE, flexible working template – and increase your chances of getting a ‘Yes’ to your request from your employer here.