More and more of us are looking for jobs that have flexibility, whether that’s with location or working hours. Unfortunately, only 15% of advertised jobs are for part-time or flexible roles according to research by Timewise (a flexible working consultancy). Given this daunting statistic, it might help to know that there are some things you can do to find a great job with the flexibility you want.
The first thing to do to get a job is, of course, to apply, and to apply for jobs which don’t talk about flexibility as well as those that do. Do some research before you apply to see if the company you’re thinking of applying to has other employees who have part-time workers and flexible positions. These companies are far more likely to be open to negotiating flexibility into the job role. Even if the job is not advertised as one with flexible working hours or location, doesn’t mean that it can’t become one.
Timing is key though. Perhaps don’t bring up flexibility too soon in the process. Wait, and if you are offered the job then bring up the subject of flexible working. If you are the right candidate, give them some time to review your application and see if exceptions may be made.
However, if it turns out that you are the one they want, you may also need to be flexible with their flexibility offer. Flexibility goes both ways. If ideally you want to work a three-day week with two of those days being at home and they seem resistant, ask if you can start on a four-day week with one of the days being at home. If things go well, you can review the situation and perhaps get the flexibility you really want later on.
