Going back to work after parental leave is just about to get easier. If you're about to negotiate your return to work with your employer there are some industrial relations changes under the new Fair Work Australia Act that advocate your right to request a flexible work option, effective Jan 1, 2010. Under the new Act parents with children under the age of 6 are able to formally request a flexible work arrangement which can include options such as part time reduced hours or job share or even the opportunity to extend their parental leave up to 24 months.
Not sure what you're entitled to or how to negotiate with you're employer? Here's some tips;
1. Ask for a copy of your employers parental leave or flexible work policy to check what your entitlements are. Find out if you're covered by an Award or call www.mumsatwork.com.au free job guidance hotline 02 9967 8377.
2. Prepare for your conversation with your manager in advance, consider two or three flexible work options you can offer your employer and be prepared to answer detail questions of how the arrangement could work for everyone including your team.
3. Plan the conversation in advance giving your manager some detail about what you'd like to discuss so there's an agenda for the meeting. Preferably have the meeting in person.
4. Agree on the key areas you think you can make the arrangement you are proposing work and be prepared to make compromises in things you can't absolutely agree on.
5. Agree to a trial basis of 3-6 months to see how the flexible work options works for both on you and reality and agree to meet regularly to review it and make any adjustments.
What more info on this topic, you'll find it on www.mumsatwork.com.au
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