Boss doesn't seem open to revised schedule

jkelly41

I will try to keep this brief

I proposed working 36 hours in office M-TH and four hours from home on Fridays (my least busy day).  Boss said that would set a precedent for other employees and that if he agreed, it couldn't be a permanent schedule, per HR.  He asked me for a proposed end date.

Now, he's already granted someone else in my office part-time status when no one else in the company has it. I think the precedent has already been set.  I agree when he said others may want to work from home too, but other branches allow their employees to do so- it just seems like the office/region I'm in doesn't.  What can I do or say in this situation?  I'm just frustrated that his tone is already negative.

RoxyLynn

Have you already asked for a probationary period?  Maybe 60 days, and at that point assess how it's working out for you and your manager.

jkelly41

That's what's he's asking for- I guess I took it as negative.  I was going to suggest six months... or is that too long?  He could always counteroffer a shorter term.

katy75

I agree with proposing a probationary period.  I work from home on Fridays, and it is great.  Not everyone in my division can work from home though - it is a job dependent situation.  I can do my job from home, where as others can't.  I also know that if I have a meeting on Fridays, I have to go into the office.

Does the part-time person work from home?  If not, working from home and working part time are different areas.

Try suggesting a probationary period and letting him know if you are needed in the office, you will definitely be there.

RoxyLynn

If he's reluctant, I'd say 3 or 4 months would be appropriate.  Be sure you've given the strongest possible arguments - that your client/co-worker contacts will not be affected, your altered schedule will not be visible to clients, that you will have childcare 100% of the time you're working from home.

bridetobe0jb

I had proposed for one year term with a requirement to give it at least 2 month to work out any kinks.  I also asked for a 30-day notice of cancellation so I could make arrangements. 

rab41380

i had the same issue at my company, I also proposed a schedule that was very simple with workign from home for a few hous a week.  THey told me the same thing and I have been there for years.  I am just going to wait until they offer someone else a revised schedule and then I am going to ask again.  Never hurts!

sprky79

honestly, I think he's tired of hiring full time people and getting part time hours out of them.  It sucks, and I'm not saying its fair, and 36 may as well be full time, but I bet he's tired of getting asked....