How do I negotiate a flexible work schedule?

Finding the ideal job to accommodate your schedule shouldn't feel like a burden.

Before the interview, research the company and dig for clues about the culture, that can help you decide whether or not to bring up the flextime topic, and if so, when and how directly. Research is always incredibly important before your interview, however, in this case you are searching for some definitive signs that the particular company you wish to interview with, can offer what you're looking for.

Check the company’s Careers or Employment section of their website to see if they specifically feature telecommuting, part-time hours, and/or other flexible work and schedule arrangements, as one of their desirable employee benefits. Savvy employers recognize that workplace flexibility helps, not only in recruitment but can also provide stronger employee retention. They typically promote it and also practice it.

Some don’t always walk the talk. So verify practices by checking with current or past employees. Here are a few resources to utilize: LinkedIn.com, GlassDoor.com, and Fairygodboss to find people to ask.

Look for clues about company culture when you arrive for the interview. Are there any signs that a personal life outside of work is openly acknowledged (if not, celebrated)?

In the interview, when it comes your turn to ask questions, it's a great time to start subtly inquiring about work practices. Ask about a typical day, or the typical number of hours worked in a week, as well as expectations about extra hours during special projects. Inquire about employee connectivity during “off” hours: are employees expected to check email in the evenings or on weekends?

If telecommuting, job sharing, and other flexible work policies are mentioned on their website, ask about the typical level of employee participation. If applicable, mention your history as a part-time employee or previous telework and how it proved to positively impact your productivity.

Bring up the flexible-schedule topic after you’ve already negotiated your starting salary. This is especially important if you plan to pitch a reduced workweek, which could entail pro-rating the full-time salary to some degree.

“I’m enthused by what we’ve discussed so far about the position and pleased to consider your offer. I’ll need a day or so to contemplate it before making my final decision. Before we conclude, I’m wondering if we could explore the schedule that would allow me to remain highly productive and do my best work as the [position title].”

Then in a tactful, matter-of-fact tone, clearly and succinctly describe your ideal flexible work schedule, ending with something like: “Is that something we might agree to, as well?”

Be ready but firm from the start about what you are or aren’t willing to accept in salary, job flexibility, and other terms.

If a flexible schedule is so important that you ask directly as part of your negotiated work terms, are you ready to decline the job offer if those terms aren’t met?

Be prepared with a list of acceptable variations on flexible work options so that you have room to negotiate and compromise.

Are you willing to risk having the offer withdrawn if they perceive your request as unreasonable? That’s a potential possibility for which you need to be prepared.

Take a look at the big picture of your circumstances to determine how you should proceed with asking and negotiating. Negotiations don't begin until someone resists the proposal, so don't fear the no - just know your terms.