NEGOTIATING FLEXIBILITY IN A SHINY NEW ROLE

Flexibility is still the word on the street. Post-COVID, we’re all here wondering what the future of the support office looks like. But how do we negotiate flexibility into that next shiny role we are pursuing?

Despite what you might think, flexibility isn’t a given in each and every role you apply for. It’s important to remember that if you are asking for flexibility, you must be flexible in turn. Don’t go in too hard or too fast when looking to negotiate this in a role offer. If you’re joining a new workplace, your new employer will want your energy in their office. Being in the office full time at first will elevate your training and learning, your bonds with the peers and will fuel your role enjoyment too.

It’s okay to ask for flexibility in the early stages, but remember that with a flexibility request must also come a skillset guarantee. If you are still a junior or mid level candidate who is developing their skills, don’t ask for too much flexibility too early. WFH means you need to be able to autonomously schedule and optimise your workflow and complete your tasks with a very high level of skill and competency. The more senior you are, the more flexibility you can request.

However, dear job seeker, remember that being in the office when you are in the early parts of your career will be of much more benefit to your skill development than working from home. A mentor by your side each day will have a powerful impact on your learning.

SUMMARY

Your request for flexible work must be equal to the level of skillset that you can bring. Don’t ask for too much, too soon. Offer to be in the office full time for the first 3-6 months. be open to negotiating WFH at later stages, and ensure that if you are negotiating this from the beginning, you are still offering most of your time in the office (ie. 3-2 or 4-1 hybrid). Despite this being a candidate-driven market, employers are still looking for employees who want to come to work and want to be a part of that office culture. Be smart and be calculated, angels.