Writing Flexible Working Requests in Consultancy

[UpInTheNight]

Does anyone have experience of submitting a flexible working request in consultancy?

I work for the consultancy services division of a major IT company and want to return PT (3 days/week) after my ML.
Prior to my ML I was meeting my billable targets and the company is recruiting others with my skills.

However, I've been told that the hurdle for my application will be quite high as they need to be convinced there will be sufficient billable part-time work.

This is very difficult to prove before the event since, unlike a 'normal' job, I will only know this once I return and start applying for work. The nature of my roles will depend on the projects and other work around at the time. Nearly all will be assumed to be and advertised internally as FT; I know I will have to argue my ability to do each job PT on a case by case basis.

So, how do I frame my request to help my company from taking the easy option of saying 'well, the business need as requested by project managers is FT' and turning my request down?

Any advice gratefully received!

[flowerybeanbag]

It's not clear, are your clients internal or external?

You could suggest a trial period to see how well it may pan out negotiating part time for each project?

How about a job share?

[UpInTheNight]

Thanks for the interest! My clients are external. My job was typically based on client sites for 6-12 months, often staying away from home 3-4 nights/week (am now resigned to long commutes to ensure I do get home when working, but I reckon the trade-off is worth it to get 2 free days a week with my DC)

I think my new contract would be on a rolling basis with a review after a specified period/trial period so that will apply.

Jobshare is a potential theoretical possibility, but as a national organisation and with very few other women in this position am very unlikely to find a match

I was just wondering if there are things others have said apart from the obvious ones which would entail coverage on 'days off' (check emails, phone for contact/necessary meetings etc).

[hollypocks]

Hi, aside from the PT issue I would have a long think about whether you really do think that you could be happy doing a job in consultancy with children. I tried to continue but felt constantly under pressure to work on my days off and consequently felt I fitted 5 days work into 4 (as I was doing). There were also may comments from colleagues who felt it was unfair that they were working FT. Sorry to be so negative but just wanted to share my experiences.