If you want flexible hours, ask…

If you want flexibility in your job, you should ask. That’s the message coming through from a survey of employers which shows once the majority of employers have decided they want you they are open to negotiations on flexible hours.

If you want flexibility in your job, you should ask. That’s the message coming through from a survey of employers which shows once the majority of employers have decided they want you they are open to negotiations on flexible hours.

The survey by Careerbuilder.co.uk found  one in 10 said they actually thought less of candidates who do not try to reach a better deal. Seventy per cent would consider negotiating about flexible work hours and indeed flexible work hours came out top of the incentives employers were prepared to consider. Half (49 per cent) also said they leave some negotiating room when providing salary increases to current employees.

“Negotiating compensation can be one of the most stressful and uncomfortable parts of the job search process,” said Tony Roy, President of CareerBuilder EMEA.  “While the competition for jobs remains stiff, employers are often willing to consider additional requests from job candidates, especially for highly-specialised talent.  Whether you are negotiating for a new job or current position, the best way to make your case is to come armed with third party data on average salaries for the position and examples of specific accomplishments you have achieved in your career.”

Other incentives and perks employers were prepared to negotiate on included training opportunities [40 per cent said they would consider these]; bonuses; vacation time; telecommuting options [15 per cent would consider this]; title changes; dress; academic reimbursement and better office or desk space.

When asked to identify the most effective ways for workers to receive a better offer, employers recommended the following:

1)   Know your market value – Twenty-one per cent of employers reported that candidates and current staff should thoroughly research the average pay for the position in their geographic area and reference third party data from more than one source. 

2)   Show them what you can bring to the table – Nearly half of employers (47 per cent) said they want to see the candidate’s track record in terms of impactful contributions they’ve made to other organisations.  For current staff, they recommend keeping a file of accomplishments achieved at their company, quantifying results whenever possible.

3)   Ask others to vouch for you. Twenty-two per cent of employers reported that strong references for past work performance can influence their decisions on increasing compensation in job offers.

“Another important point to remember when reviewing a job offer is to look beyond the paycheck,” said Roy.  “Some jobs that may not pay as well may be rich in learning and advancement opportunities or have a great work culture.  Make sure to look at the whole package.”

• Vote  
• 0
• 0
• You already voted!

• Tags:
• Flexible Working