Top 5 Tips on How to Make a Successful Flexible Working Request (2024) Under the New UK Legislation
The Flexible Working Legislation finally came into effect on 6th April and it’s imperative for employees to understand their rights and how to navigate the process successfully.
The new legislation grants employees the right to request flexible working from day one of employment. The legislation also eliminates the onus on employees to explain and has also made consultation pre-refusal a mandatory step. This significant change aims to promote work-life balance and support diverse workforce needs. Under the new law, employers will be required to consider all flexible working requests in a reasonable manner and provide a valid reason for any refusal.
If you are an employee who has always wanted to add a bit more flexibility to your work life, here’s your chance! This article highlights the essential aspects of making a flexible working request under the new law, providing you with actionable tips for a successful outcome.
What is a Flexible Working Request?
A flexible working request is a formal proposal made by an employee to their employer to change the terms of their working arrangement. This can include changes to working hours, location, or pattern. Flexible working arrangements can take various forms, such as part-time hours, job sharing, remote working, or flexitime.
How to make a successful flexible working request under the new Flexible Working legislation:
- Familiarise Yourself with the New Legislation:
Take the time to understand the key provisions of the new flexible working law, including your rights as an employee and the obligations of your employer. Educate yourself on the updated eligibility criteria, procedure for making a request, and the employer’s duty to consider and respond to requests in a timely manner.
- Be Proactive and Assertive:
With the right to request flexible working now available from day one of employment, don’t hesitate to proactively explore flexible working options that suit your needs. Be assertive in initiating discussions with your employer about your preferences and how they align with your job role and responsibilities.
- Leverage Technology and Remote Working Solutions:
Incorporate technology into your flexible working proposal to demonstrate how you can maintain connectivity, collaboration, and productivity regardless of your physical location. Showcase your familiarity with flexible working tools and platforms that enable seamless communication and task management.
- Provide Solutions, Not Just Problems:
Anticipate any potential objections or challenges your employer may raise and be prepared to offer solutions. Whether it’s addressing concerns about maintaining productivity, ensuring effective communication with colleagues, or maintaining customer service standards, demonstrate how you plan to overcome these challenges. Offering practical solutions can help alleviate any reservations your employer may have about approving your request.
- Be Flexible and Willing to Compromise:
Flexibility is a two-way street. While you may have specific preferences for your flexible working arrangement, be willing to compromise and negotiate with your employer. Consider alternative solutions or adjustments that meet both your needs and the needs of the business. By demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to find common ground, you can increase the likelihood of reaching a mutually satisfactory agreement.
By leveraging the tips outlined in this article and embracing the opportunities for flexibility, employees can achieve a better work-life balance and contribute to a more agile and inclusive workforce culture.
If you need any further assistance or guidance, feel free to contact Emma, at emma@flexmatters.co.uk or on 07810 541599.
