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Covid has transformed the way we work, offering employees more control over their schedules and helping to balance personal and professional commitments. Whether you're looking to reduce commuting, spend more time with family, or improve your overall well-being, flexible working can offer the freedom you need. But how do you go about requesting flexible working hours? In this guide, we’ll explain the steps, provide templates, and offer insights into finding flexibility policies at a company.

Seeking flexible work?

Remote roles

Offering flexibility and a balanced lifestyle.

Hybrid roles

Combining office collaboration with flexible remote work.

Types of flexible work

Flexible working can come in many forms, depending on your needs and the nature of your job. Here are some common types of flexible work arrangements.

Compressed hours

  • Work the same number of hours across fewer days (e.g., four longer days instead of five).

Part-time work

  • Work fewer hours than a standard full-time schedule, which can be helpful for balancing personal commitments.

Flexitime

  • Have control over when you start and finish work, as long as you work your contracted hours.

Job sharing

  • Two employees share the responsibilities of one full-time position, each working part of the week.

Remote working

  • Work from home or another location outside the office, either full-time or part-time.

Staggered hours

  • Begin and end your working day at different times from your colleagues but still work the same hours.
Learn more

Finding flexibility policies at a company

1

Check your employment contract

Some contracts may outline what forms of flexible working are already available, such as flexitime or remote working options.
2

Review the employee handbook

This document often contains policies on flexible working arrangements. Look for a section on working hours or work-life balance.
3

Speak to HR or a manager

If the policies aren’t clear, reach out to your human resources department or line manager for more information. They can clarify what's possible and any procedures you need to follow.
4

Observe current practices

Look at the work arrangements of your colleagues. If others are already working flexibly, it can be an indication that your company is open to similar requests.

Step-by-step guide to requesting flexible working hours

Once you’ve checked your company’s policies and clarified your own reasons, you’re ready to request flexible working. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Evaluate your reasons for a flexible work request

Prepare a flexible working quest template

A formal request should be clear, professional, and detailed. A flexible working request template might include the following:

Download a flexible working request template

Submit your request in writing

It’s a good idea to put your request in writing, either via email or a formal letter, to ensure there is a clear record of your application.

Prepare for a discussion

Your employer may have questions or concerns. Be prepared to discuss how you will maintain productivity, manage communication, and handle any potential challenges that may arise from the new arrangement.

If you’re specifically looking to adjust your work hours, here’s a template to guide your flexible working hours request:

Download the template
Learn more

What to do if your flexible working request is denied

If your request is declined, ask for feedback on the reasons why. Sometimes, employers may have concerns about staffing or operational needs that can be addressed with a compromise. You might suggest a trial period to demonstrate how the arrangement can work. If your request is still rejected, you may have the right to appeal depending on your company’s policies and employment laws.

Read the 2023 Flexible Working Act

How ivee can help you find flexible jobs

If you’re looking for flexible job opportunities but aren’t sure where to start, ivee can help. As a platform dedicated to connecting women returning to work with diverse and flexible roles, ivee offers a range of tools to make your job search easier. Here’s how ivee can support your journey towards a more flexible working life.

Looking for flexible work?

Remote roles

Offering flexibility and a balanced lifestyle.

Hybrid roles

Combining office collaboration with flexible remote work.

Join the ivee community!

Join our Facebook group. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with like-minded returners, seek advice on returning to work after maternity leave, or share your experiences, our Facebook community is here to help you navigate your journey back into the workforce.

You’ll find:

👉 Latest regulatory changes regarding maternity leave

👉 CV templates for women returning to work

👉 Latest industry updates

👉 Resources and guides to help you on your job hunt

👉 Confidence-building events, webinars and advice on all aspects of returning to work

Our Facebook community

The ivee vine

Join now!

Conclusion

Requesting flexible working hours doesn’t have to be daunting. By preparing a clear, thoughtful proposal and showing how your request can benefit both you and your employer, you can increase your chances of success. Whether you’re seeking flexible jobs, compressed hours, or part-time work, understanding your company’s policies and your own needs is key.

Ready to start your flexible working journey?

Download our Flexible Working Request Template today and take the first step towards a better work-life balance!
Access the template