by Beks
A few weeks ago, the temp filling in for me while I’m out on leave, called to say she wouldn’t be returning after October 1st. Legally I can take leave until the end of November but I was reluctant to leave my employer in a bind. Usually, I’m not one to take advantage when the cards are in my favor but… I want to be with my son as long and as much as humanly possible soooo… I played my best hand.
I negotiated with the HR department to only work 2 days per week until the end of the year and return to full-time status in January. I asked that my benefits remain the same and I accrue vacation time at the normal rate.
Turns out, I can be quite bossy.
HR approved my request.
I start this week but it’s easier knowing it’s only part-time. Let’s just hope our checkbook can survive!
Beks is a full-time government employee who enjoys blogging late into the night after her four kids have gone to sleep. She’s been married to Chris, her college sweetheart, for 15 years. In 2017, after 3 long years working the Dave Ramsey Baby Steps, they paid off more than $70K and became debt free. When she’s not working or blogging, she’s exploring the great outdoors.
That is awesome!!!!! So happy you played your cards just right :-).
I did the same thing when I had my first baby. It really does help to ease back in.
I never returned to full time work after I had my first baby. That was nearly 12 years ago. I do work part time, but I didn’t want to leave my babies either, so I can feel your pain. Glad to hear that you got a great deal on your return to work.
Yay! I was worried about you today. 🙂
You should have negotiated a raise, too, based on your previous posts.
Debt-free Dan – Yup, I’m working on that one too!
Rock on! I like hearing about women making this work.
i was able to do something similar with both girls. i think it works well for both sides since its unlikely youd be sooo busy as soon as you return. easing into it also leaves you emotionally healthier, i think.
That is great! Part time work would be my dream. Enjoy that Baby and ease back into work.
Great job on thinking out of the box!
Great job! Congrats. I remember going back to work after my baby was born. He’s 14 months now, and it hasn’t gotten any easier. 🙁
Wow, good for you for being your own best advocate! It just goes to show, you have nothing to lose for asking. This is a win win situation for you. You’ll be able to slowly ease into going back to work full time, adjusting to the separation of your little one. 🙂
Good work! You should negotiate a higher base pay rate when you return. It’s obvious they really count on you.
Lucky you! I’ve only worked at places where folks who request part-time hours are laughed out the door.
Awesome! Good for you! Hopefully it helps with the transition and makes it just a bit more easier!
Hooray for you! Congrats on having the confidence to stand up for yourself, knowledge to know what you want, and skills to succeed in getting it!