Increasingly employers recognise that at any stage in an employees life, circumstances can arise which may result in the need or desire for flexible of alternate work practices to be negotiated.

FamilyBiz has developed this toolkit to assist people to manage the negotiation and implementation of new working conditions.

Things to Consider

Think about why you want or need to work alternatively

There are many reasons why people want or need to adopt alternate or flexible work practices. Reasons may include; to study, to care for sick or elderly family members, to spend time with children, to care for young children or babies, health, nearing retirement or simply for a life style change. It is important when developing and presenting your proposal that you clearly communicate your reasons to your manager as it may help to formulate a mutually beneficial solution.

Click here for a template to assist you in developing a proposal [pdf]

What is my career strategy?

Before discussing or negotiating any change to your current work practices it is important to think about developing a clear and concise "Career Strategy". This involves thinking about answers to a series of key questions all designed to start you thinking about where you want your career to go and how you are going to achieve your goal. As your personal and career circumstances change you may need to evaluate or review your strategy.