Accountant and Bookkeeper Articles

These days it’s called an alternative work schedule, a compressed work week, or a flexible work arrangement. Regardless of what some may call it, many view these alternative work schedules as appealing options. It enables employees to better balance their work and personal lives. And it can also increase productivity and save employers money. But how does it work and can you get your boss to approve?

Flex-Time

First, let’s explain the differences. A flexible work schedule allows employees to work the traditional eight-hour workday but at a less traditional time. Many choose to start working their eight hours earlier in the day, for example, from six in the morning until three in the afternoon. Or perhaps they begin their work day later in order to end later, let’s say from ten in the morning until seven in the evening. Regardless of the schedule they choose, these employees are expected to be at work Monday through Friday at their predetermined times.

Compressed Work Schedule

A compressed work schedule allows employees to work longer hours each workday in order to shorten their work week. These employees are still expected to put in their full 40 hours but in a compressed work schedule. For example, a four-day work week requires employees to work 4 10-hour days. A three-day work week requires employees to put in 13 hours and 20 minutes for three days in order to enjoy a four-day weekend.

Getting Employer Approval

Obviously, your employer has final say in whether or not you can adopt one of these alternative work schedules. But there are ways to broach the subject in order to appeal to your employer and have a better chance at approval. Here are just a few do’s and don’ts:

DON’T get personal
Instead of approaching your boss with all the reasons a flexible work arrangement would benefit YOU (more time with your family, the opportunity to earn a degree, the chance to participate in hours of community service), identify how it would benefit your employer. Not only do alternative work schedules enable employers to better recruit and retain quality employees, but studies consistently show that employees with flexible work schedules are happier and more productive.

DON’T wing it
It’s important that you prepare your case in advance. Expecting to walk in and woo your boss without any forethought or study will not do yourself nor your boss any favors.

DO anticipate the employer’s concerns
Consider all the factors that might concern your boss. How will the altered work schedule affect your responsibilities, your performance, the coworkers who rely on your position, and your ability to interact with key constituents? Anticipate all his/her concerns and prepare your proposal accordingly.

DO prepare a coherent and persuasive proposal
Determine the schedule you would prefer and prepare your proposal as you would prepare a speech. Include key talking points that would appeal to your boss and iterate employer benefits. Emphasize your dedication to the company, and how that won’t change with an altered work schedule. Also remind your boss of your past work performance and how that has already benefited the company. Leave a hardcopy of your proposal so your boss can revisit your argument as a final decision is made.

If your boss is resistant, DO suggest a trial period
An employer may be uncomfortable with instituting an irreversible flex schedule without first seeing how well it may work. He/she may be more receptive if there’s a trial period; if the arrangement doesn’t prove beneficial to the company, you can resume your traditional work schedule. View this trial period as the opportunity to prove just how beneficial this can be, not just for you, but for the employer and other employees who may want to follow your lead.

In approaching your employer remember that you are part of a team, and your proposal is a genuine reflection on how an alternative work schedule benefits everyone involved. A happy employee is usually a productive one who, in turn, makes the employer more productive and more profitable.

References
“Flex Schedules Can Balance Work, Home Times,” by Tory Johnson, ABCnews.com
“Plan Your Negotiation Strategy,” WorkOptions.com