Flexible/Part Time Work Arrangements - Need Perspective, Please

SaraAnn4486 · November 2013

Not an active member of the bump anymore (DD is 3) but I am in need of perspective and am hoping I can get some help from you, please. As background, I have been with the same company for the last 8.5 years (consumer products, sales function). My job is the best I have ever had in terms of being exciting, intellectually stimulating, visible and impactful, and having a great boss. I have been working from home for the past 3 years, but my most recent promotion 1.5 years ago has required long hours and significant travel - I'm away from home overnight about 2 nights per week, and I'm not happy with how little I see my daughter and husband. DH is great but works long hours including overnight and weekend call (medical). After much discussion, DH and I decided that I would resign from my position today. In starting the discussion with my boss, he immediately offered to work with me on a flexible work arrangement if that would be a fit for my life rather than leaving the company. There are few people at my company that have this type of arrangement so I don't really know what the options could be and was hoping for some perspective please. In terms of days per week, hours per day, travel restrictions (none or very little, etc), what are the flexible or part-time work arrangements you have made that you've been pleased with or situations that you would steer clear of? Thank you in advance for your perspective!!

becks2012 · November 2013

I used to work 32 hours per week, and could work from home and set my own hours. It was ideal for me, because I could keep my benefits, was eligible for health insurance, and could work at 4 AM if I wanted. I compromised with the employer because they did need me to travel, and set up travel weeks (1 week of full time travel, and no travel the rest of the time.) This wasn't ideal, but it let me fullfill the business needs.

jlaOK · November 2013

I work PT (32 hrs per week) from home and love it. I have a schedule but can change it as necessary. I work hourly, which totally works for my situation because I get paid for any hours I work beyond my set schedule. So if I have to work late and spend time away from my family, I get paid for it.

The only downsides for me is benefits. I started out with no benefits and got PTO after I had been there a year. I just wish that I could qualify for the work 401k instead of doing retirement all on my own. The downsides I hear about PT work is that the employee is paid PT but ends up putting in FT hours. I would just make sure that you won't have to still work the long hours you put in now.

I don't travel for work, so I can't comment on that.

Could you talk to the other people in your company who have the flex schedule and see what they think?

JulyMomma2U2 · November 2013

I work 3 days/week (21hrs - UK based company, 35hr/week is FT).. this works for me as I commute ~1.5hr/each way. It has been the absolute best decision ever. For me, it's the perfect balance of intellectual stimulation and adult interaction mixed with my need to spend more time home with my kids. Good luck with your decision!! I'd totally give p/t a try

djm31012 · November 2013

why dont you and DH sit down and figure out what would work and propose that? If you were considering stopping all together anyway, it doesnt make a difference. Maybe try this: Travel once a month, work 3 days per week at whatever hours you choose...for me id rather work like 6am to 2pm or something.....

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Flexible/Part Time Work Arrangements - Need Perspective, Please

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