The world of work is changing, and for the better. Whether you're returning after a career break, looking to rebalance work and family life, or simply aiming for a more human approach to productivity, flexible work can be a game changer. But knowing how to negotiate flexible working with your employer (especially if you’re unsure where to start) can feel overwhelming. This guide is your go-to resource for negotiating flexible working arrangements in the UK. We’ll cover key terms, share step-by-step advice, and give you easy-to-customise email templates to help you confidently ask for flexible working hours, whether you're already in a role or reviewing a new job offer.
Jump to:
- Why flexible work matters (and why it’s okay to ask)
- Types of flexible work you can negotiate
- How to negotiate a flexible work schedule (step-by-step)
- Email templates for asking for flexible work
- Template: Negotiating flexible work hours in a current role
- Template: How to negotiate flexible work hours in a job offer
- Template: Negotiating part-time hours
- Tips for negotiating flexibility
- FAQs: Negotiating flexible working in the UK
- Final thoughts: Flexible work is the future
- References and further reading
Why flexible work matters (and why it's okay to ask)
Flexible work isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s becoming a non-negotiable for many. Whether you’re negotiating hybrid work, compressed hours, or a part-time return after parental leave, it’s about creating a working pattern that supports both your life and your career.
And if you’re worried about how it might look to ask, don’t be. In the UK, every employee has a legal right to request flexible working after 26 weeks in a role. And thanks to the Flexible Working Act 2023, that right is set to expand even further.
You can read more about your legal rights on the official Government website.
Bonus: Flexible working has been shown to boost retention, productivity, and job satisfaction, so it’s as beneficial for employers as it is for employees.
Types of flexible work you can negotiate
Before you negotiate flexible work, it’s worth knowing your options. Here are a few of the most common types:
Understanding these options will help you choose the right structure, and make your case with clarity.
How to negotiate a flexible work schedule (step-by-step)
Step 1: Clarify what you want
Get specific. Do you want to work from home two days a week? Start later to manage school drop-offs? Compress your hours into four days? Pin it down before initiating the conversation.
Step 2: Understand the business context
Frame your request in a way that aligns with your employer’s goals. For example:
- How will this improve your productivity?
- How does it support team collaboration?
- What evidence can you offer that it won’t impact business needs?
Step 3: Make the request professionally
Whether you’re negotiating flexible working hours in a current role or discussing it during a job offer negotiation, your tone should be positive, collaborative, and confident. Don’t apologise for asking – own it.
Email templates for asking for flexible work
Note: these templates are designed for general guidance. Always check your company’s policy and refer to ACAS guidance if you’re unsure about the formal process.
Template: Negotiating flexible work hours in a current role
Subject: Flexible Working Request
Hi [Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re well. I’d like to explore the possibility of adjusting my working pattern to better align with my current responsibilities outside of work. Specifically, I’d love to discuss [e.g. starting at 10am and finishing at 6pm, or working from home 2 days a week].
I’ve considered how this would affect the team and am confident it won’t impact my ability to meet deadlines or collaborate effectively. I’d be happy to trial this arrangement for a period of time and review it together.
Let me know if there’s a good time to chat further.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Template: How to negotiate flexible work hours in a job offer
Subject: Working Pattern Flexibility – Offer Discussion
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you again for the offer for [Job Title]. I’m really excited about the opportunity and the work your team is doing.
Before moving forward, I wanted to ask whether the role offers any flexibility in terms of [e.g. hybrid working, compressed hours, or adjusted start times]. A more flexible working arrangement would allow me to bring my best to the role, and I’d love to find a setup that works for both of us.
Let me know your thoughts and whether we can discuss this further.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Template: Negotiating part-time hours
Subject: Request for Part-Time Working Arrangement
Hi [Manager’s Name],
I wanted to explore the option of moving to part-time hours, specifically [e.g. 3 days per week or reduced daily hours], to better balance my personal commitments with work.
I’m committed to maintaining the quality and consistency of my work and would be happy to discuss how to manage priorities within a part-time schedule.
Let me know a time that suits you to talk this through.
Thanks so much,
[Your Name]
Find out how to request a phased return to work
Access phased return to work templates below
Phased return request templatesTips for negotiating flexibility
When you’re negotiating flexibility (especially via email) it pays to be clear, constructive, and open to compromise.
❌ Don’t:
- Apologise for asking
- Be vague about your request
- Frame it as a demand. This is a collaboration, not an ultimatum
✅ Do:
- Focus on outcomes: how your proposed setup helps you and the team
- Suggest a trial period if your manager seems hesitant
- Be ready to adapt based on business needs
FAQs: Negotiating flexible working in the UK
Final thoughts: Flexible work is the future
Negotiating flexible work is no longer taboo, it’s becoming the norm. Whether you’re asking for flexible work, adjusting your current role, or reviewing a new offer, the key is to approach the conversation with clarity and confidence.
You deserve a working life that works for you.
References & further reading
These resources provide additional insight into your rights, responsibilities, and smart strategies for negotiating flexibility at work:
- Gov.uk – Flexible working overview
The official guide to requesting flexible work in the UK, including legal rights and how to apply. - ACAS – Making a flexible working request
A practical guide from the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service on how to approach flexible working conversations. - Working Families UK – Flexible work for parents and carers
Helpful advice and legal guidance for working parents and carers navigating flexible work. - ivee – Return to Work resources
Articles, templates, and expert advice tailored for those returning to work or seeking greater flexibility. - ivee Blog – Top reasons to request flexible working that employers will accept
Explore the top reasons for requesting flexible working that employers commonly accept, along with practical examples and tips for presenting your case effectively.
Find out how to request a phased return to work
Access phased return to work templates below
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