Struggling with part-time arrangement

[muchovino]

I currently manage a small team and work three more or less full days then two half days - working every day was the deal of managing the team. The two part days aren't working as not enough time in office or at home and means I am not productive enough at work. I have suggested working four days which has been slammed as have to be in every day for the team. I could however do four days and be demoted / take paycut, which is not an option!! Have I got a cat in hell's chance of persuading them otherwise or is this dead in the water? Any experience in a similar situation greatly appreciated! TIA

[thepetitpear]

I'm so sorry to hear of your predicament.

I've not been in the same position as you but had a flexible working request to change my hours due to childcare requirements rejected three times last year as I managed a team. Ultimately, I ended up resigning and left in October after working there for 11+ years.

Before it got to that stage, I asked for a department swap if the hours could be accommodated (nothing came of it) and then finally, suggested a demotion (that was refused). This was over the course of 9 months and had the TU and HR involved.

I really hope something can be sorted for you.

[muchovino]

Thank you thepetitpear, I am sorry that you had to resign but hope you are now in a happier work situation .

[grumpysquash3]

mucho
What sort of work do you do? How do your line reports manage on the part days you're not there? Are you customer/client facing?

[fiorentina]

I work four days and manage a team. Are your team all trained well enough and empowered enough to work effectively when you aren't there and can you demonstrate that? Ultimately if it doesn't work for the business I'm afraid it isn't about what works best for you from their perspective. Maybe look for a new role and secure 4 days a week upfront. This has worked for me twice when applying for new management roles..

[muchovino]

Hi grumpy, I work in a sales environment and I am customer facing, when I am not in, the line reports have clear direction and speak to my Manager with queries (who is quite in favour of the 4 days thing / happy to cover the day in my absence / speak to clients etc), it's the big boss who has point blank refused.