Finding a job that fits around family life can seem challenging, especially if you've always worked traditional hours in an office setting. But with creativity and the right approach, it's more than possible to adapt or even transform your career to suit your needs and priorities.
Here are some flexible roles and tips to secure a family-friendly career.
1. Can you adapt your current job?
Before jumping into a new role, it’s worth exploring if your current position could offer the flexibility you need. Sheffield has seen a strong shift towards flexible and hybrid working, with many employers now open to alternatives.
Here are a few ideas:
Propose a Flexibility Trial: If you’ve been working in-office until 5 pm every day, try proposing a trial period where you work from home part-time or adjust your hours. Present a plan that explains how you’ll handle your responsibilities from home and set clear outcomes for your manager to assess during the trial. Many employers are willing to try new setups, especially if it improves your well-being and productivity.
Negotiate Shift Options: Depending on the nature of your work, you might suggest staggered hours or even job-sharing with a colleague, both of which can create more flexibility around school drop-offs and pick-ups.
2. Create your own Job – Become your own Boss!
If you crave the ultimate flexibility, creating your own business could be ideal. Starting a business allows you to set your hours and work around your family’s schedule. There’s a range of options that suit different skill sets and interests:
Freelancing & Consulting: If you have a background in marketing, HR, or writing, consider freelancing. Sites like Upwork and Fiverr can connect you with clients, and Sheffield has many local networking events that could help you build a client base.
Accounting, Web design, Social Media, Copywriting and Tutoring are some of the areas that lend themselves to working for yourself. This can be extremely rewarding and allows you to manage your time around your children’s schedules.
Becoming self-employed may feel intimidating, but resources like Sheffield City Region Growth Hub and local business networking groups can provide advice, support, and even funding.
3. Don’t overlook traditional roles – Just ask about flexibility!
Sometimes we dismiss traditional roles, assuming they won’t fit around children. However, many roles advertised as full-time or “in-office” may still offer flexibility. If you see a job you like, don’t hesitate to call and ask about options. Many employers appreciate initiative and are willing to work with candidates to create a win-win situation.
Phone the Company: Before applying, call to discuss your situation and ask if there’s flexibility for hours or working from home. Explain how you envision making it work and show that you’re committed to balancing both family and work effectively.
Voluntary Work: Volunteering can sometimes lead to paid roles, allowing you to try out a job or industry at a lower commitment level initially. In Sheffield, charities and organisations like Voluntary Action Sheffield offer roles that could lead to longer-term, flexible employment.
4. Home-Based jobs & Online opportunities
Home-based roles, such as virtual assistant positions, online tutoring, customer service, and even remote administrative roles, are ideal for those balancing childcare with work. These roles are more widely available than ever, and many employers are actively seeking people who prefer working remotely.
Platforms to Find Remote Work: Sites like Remote.co, Indeed, and FlexJobs often list fully remote positions that can provide the balance you’re looking for.
Family-Friendly Benefits: Many remote positions naturally align with family life, as they cut out commuting time and allow for work breaks that align with school pick-up and drop-off times.
Ready to find your perfect job?
There are countless opportunities to carve out a family-friendly role, especially if you’re proactive in asking for flexibility or considering self-employment. If you’d like additional support on crafting the right career path, I would be delighted to support you to find the family-friendly roles for your needs.
You can book an appointment through careercoachingsheffield.co.uk or email jillvalentinecareers@gmail.com. No matter your situation, there’s a career solution out there to support both your professional and family goals. With the right approach, you’ll find a role that lets you thrive both at work and at home.
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