Because you need to? Because you have other priorities other than work? Or simply because you want to?

People are often made to feel like they need to justify why they would like to work flexibly when, in truth, organisations should be embracing and encouraging flexibility rather than questioning it. So we've put together a few pointers that will hopefully encourage you to request flexible work options with confidence.

Firstly, know that working flexibly increases productivity, job satisfaction and engagement, and reduces stress, fatigue and the number of days taken off due to illness. By requesting flexibility you are basically offering to be a higher value employee, so don't apologise about needing it. Request it with confidence!

Secondly, there are so many other options other than remote working and there is often a combination of options that will provide the best solution to both you and your employer. Part-time with flexi-hours or compressed hours with one-day remote etc.

Think through the various options to work out which ones make sense to you and then look at different combinations to see if they create a more effective solution. Remember that it's not just about what you would like, but also what would add value to your employer.

Discussing this with an employer should be a straight forward conversation about what works for you and what they are happy to agree to and, quite often, is much easier than people expect.

And finally, know that more and more companies are looking at offering flexibility (not just remote...) and if a company says no then walk away. Walk away knowing that it's their loss, not yours and that another company will absolutely say yes.

Oh, and don't fall for the "accept the full-time role and submit a flexible-work request once you've been with the company 6 months" rubbish that we hear about far too often. If a company can't offer you the flexibility you need from day one ask yourself if this really is the right opportunity for you, and if you're not sure read the 'And finally' bit again.