THROWBACK: How to Ask for Flexibility at Work (and Actually Get It)

You’ve proven you can do your job — and do it well — while working flexibly. But now that your employer wants more office time, how do you ask for what you need without feeling guilty or being seen as “less committed”?

In this episode Carina O’Brien speaks with Dr. Ellen Ford, leadership expert and author of #WorkSchoolHours, about the art of negotiating flexibility at work. Together, they explore how working mums can confidently start the conversation, use data and outcomes to back up their case, and find a win-win that works for both you and your employer.

You’ll learn:

• How to have a confident, fact-based conversation with your boss about working from home or hybrid work
• The key phrases and language to use when asking for flexibility (without guilt or defensiveness)
• How to show your productivity and value while working flexibly
• Why hybrid work supports better wellbeing, mental load, and family balance
• How to reframe flexibility as a business advantage, not a personal favour

If you’re a working mum who wants to keep your flexibility this episode gives you the tools, confidence, and mindset to do it.

Return-to-office mandates are making headlines across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and beyond—igniting debate about productivity, flexibility, and the future of work. But what do these policies mean for working mums juggling careers and family life? Do they even have a benefit?

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Ellen Ford, leadership expert, author, and passionate advocate for workplace flexibility. We explore:

• Why companies are enforcing return-to-office mandates and what’s driving this push
• The myth of increased productivity in the office vs. hybrid work models
• How forced office work impacts working parents—especially women
• The unintended consequences for businesses—from talent loss to employee disengagement
• How to have a conversation with your employer if you’re being forced back into the office full-time
• Tactics for negotiating a hybrid work arrangement that benefits both you and your employer

If you're navigating a return-to-office mandate, this episode is packed with practical tips and strategies to help you advocate for flexibility and protect your work-life balance.

Listen to Dr. Ellen Ford's previous episode on the Working Mumma podcast ep 116 - Removing Barriers to Help Working Mums Thrive

Episode Resources & Links

• Dr. Ellen Ford’s book: #WorkSchoolHours: A Revolution for Parents, Workplaces & the World
• #WorkSchoolHours eBook - 100% discount with code "workingmumma100"
• #WorkSchoolHours Online Courses 50% off with code "workingmumma50" check out Parents course or People manager course click here
• Dr. Ellen Ford’s Website ellenjoanford.com

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