You're negotiating your salary. How do you bring up flexible work hours as an added benefit?

1 Know Your Worth

Understanding your market value is the first step in any negotiation. Before you dive into discussions about salary or flexible hours, research what professionals with your experience and skills are earning in your industry. This information not only empowers you with the confidence to negotiate but also provides a benchmark for what's reasonable to expect. When you're well-informed, you can articulate why you deserve not only a competitive salary but also the added benefit of flexible work hours, framing it as part of your overall worth to the company.

2 Timing Matters

When broaching the topic of flexible work hours, timing is key. Wait until after you've discussed your salary and you sense the employer is keen on bringing you on board. At this stage, they've already invested time and are likely more open to discussing additional benefits. Bring up flexible hours as a natural extension of the conversation about compensation, ensuring it's seen as part of your total employment package, rather than a separate or special request.

3 Mutual Benefits

Highlight the mutual benefits of flexible work hours. Emphasize how such an arrangement can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction for you, which in turn benefits the employer. Be prepared with examples of how flexible hours can contribute to the company's success, perhaps by aligning your work schedule with peak productivity times or allowing you to collaborate with international teams across different time zones.

4 Compromise is Key

Be ready to negotiate and find a compromise. Employers may have concerns about offering flexible hours, so it's important to listen and address these hesitations. You might propose a trial period for the flexible schedule or suggest a hybrid model that balances in-office presence with remote work. Demonstrating flexibility in finding a solution that works for both parties can help make your request more palatable.

5 Plan Your Approach

Plan how you'll present your case for flexible work hours. Practice articulating your points clearly and concisely, focusing on how this arrangement will enable you to deliver your best work. Anticipate potential objections and think about how you'll respond to them. Your goal is to reassure your potential employer that your request for flexibility will not compromise your commitment or the quality of your work.

6 Final Thoughts

Conclude your negotiation by summarizing the key points of agreement, including the flexible work hours, if applicable. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and your commitment to contributing to the company's success. Remember, negotiations are a two-way street, and reaching an agreement that satisfies both parties is the ultimate goal. With a well-thought-out strategy, you can successfully negotiate not just for a salary that reflects your worth but also for the work-life balance that you desire.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?