How to Find a Job That Works With Your Schedule

When job searching, it can be intimidating to ask questions of the prospective employer. We want to get the job, not hurt our chances, and asking for what we want could look like we aren’t flexible or even a good fit. But, one benefit of the recent pandemic is that employers have made adjustments to offer new types of benefits like remote work, childcare accommodations, and hybrid schedules.

Taking the initiative to ask what is available or what the employer can accommodate takes guts but also leads to better outcomes. Remember, the employer wants to find a good employee fast – and if that’s you, they may be willing to negotiate to meet your needs. Ask the right questions, and you may be surprised at the answers you get. If you don’t ask, you’ll never know.

Childcare Concerns

Tell the prospective employer about your childcare situation and ask how they would want you to handle certain scenarios. Ask them about their policies and what schedule options are available.

For example, if you have to miss work, are you able to make up time? If kids need to be home, do you have the option to work remotely?

Second Job / Side Gig

It is common for a lot of employees to do some sort of side work. If you have schedule

restrictions, be upfront, honest, and realistic. Ask what happens if a shift runs longer than expected; how will they want you to react and let them know if you are concerned about getting to another job on time.

Time is money, so it’s important to make sure your employer knows that you value their time and want to give your all. Ask if any work can be done outside the standard shift. Again, it doesn’t hurt to ask, and it will help you with time management and determining if the job is the right fit for you.

Find the Win-Win

No one knows your work ethic, skills, and strengths better than you do. If the company is willing to work with you, show them you are worth it. Offer up availability when it may not be popular but is doable for you, such as working on a holiday, early or late, even if remotely, to meet specific deadlines.

Bring forward attributes that show you aren’t looking for special treatment but rather that you are a team player willing to help. Ensure them you have the traits not only for the job but also the responsibility to manage your workload with a more flexible schedule.

Employers need reliable workers now more than ever. Honesty and showing up prepared for the interviews with direct questions demonstrate tenacity and can set you apart from the crowd. Approaching the desire for a job that works with your schedule may seem uncomfortable, but doing it directly and with respect while providing win-win solutions is the way to go.

Looking for a flexible work schedule? Let Colorado Network Staffing (CNS) help you find your next position. We find temporary, temp-to-hire, and permanent placement positions for our clients, creating win-win situations for employers and employees alike. Our employing companies are looking for the best and brightest talent and trust us to provide exactly that. Contact us at 303-430-1441, and discover who is looking for someone just like you and get started in your new career faster.

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