Job Share 

 

Job sharing is an alternative way for you to achieve flexible working. It is simply two people sharing the same job but each work part time. Job sharing can offer you the option to return to work and have time to spend with your family.

How do I Go About Job Sharing? 


If your employer already operates a job share scheme it should be fairly straightforward as the policies and procedures should be in place, just leaving you to find a job share partner.
If your employer does not currently operate a job share scheme you will have to convince your employer of the benefits in much the same way as you would when applying for any other form of flexible working.

In particular your proposal should address the following areas;
  • Prove that a full time position can be carried out to the same standard with two people sharing the role as it is by one.
  • Describe how the duties and responsibilities will be shared.
  • How to maintain a high standard of communication all affected parties.
  • Discuss renumeration package for you and your job share partner.

As with all flexible working there are advantages and disadvantages for the employer 


Advantages 

  • retention of valued workers who can no longer work full time
  • a wider range of skills, experience, views and ideas
  • greater continuity when one worker is sick or on holiday
  • increased commitment and loyalty
  • a potential reduction in absenteeism, sickness and stress

Disadvantages 

  • extra induction, training and administration costs
  • performance issues
  • communication problems
  • difficulties hiring a replacement when one job-sharer leaves
  • unclear lines of responsibility, particulary where the job shares are also managers.


Preempting Objections 


When you talk to your employer, you should be prepared for any objections or concerns that they may have regarding your job share proposal. For this:
  • do some background research into how your job share proposal could benefit the company values.
  • if job sharing is new to your employer it is easy to say 'NO'.Be prepared to show how this new approach can fit in to the company and prove a great benefit.
  • be objective when preparing your proposal - try to get into your bosses head to preempt ojections with clear and positive responses.

    Talking to your employer about this proposition is like going for an interview, so you need to be prepared.

    Conclusion 


    This may all seem like a great deal of work but it is necessary if you are serious about getting a job sharing position. This is a business proposition and, as such, needs to be well-thought-out and convincing.
    It is very easy for a company to say 'NO' or make some sort of objection that cuts off your chances. If you are prepared for most of it and show that job sharing truly is a viable option and one that could be of great benefit to the company, your chances of getting what you want are high.