Earlier this month I caught up with Anna Ives, a fellow HR Independent.  Anna specialises in flexible working, which is also a big passion of mine.  I was interested to find out about Anna’s experiences, what led her to specialise in flexible working and a how she applies this herself.  You can read the interview here:

 Hi Anna, great to connect. Could you start by tell me a little about your business?

Hi Lucy, I’m a freelance HR consultant, mainly dealing with employee relations issues.  I also specialise in helping individuals, senior leaders and managers with all things flexible working.

 What’s your career background?

 I studied Business with HR at University and then went to work as an HR Assistant for the NHS. I then went back to Uni to get my Masters in HR management whilst working full time and studying part time (the start of my love of flexible working). I am also a Chartered Member of the CIPD. I have worked in HR for over 12 years in various businesses and worked my way up.

 How did you decide upon setting up your own business?

 Unfortunately, I was made redundant from a large insurance company where I worked as a regional HR Business Partner, whilst pregnant with my eldest.

 That must have been extremely tough.  Your current business focus’s strongly on flexible working, presumably your experience was a driver for specialising in this?

 Yes.  When I couldn’t find a part time HR role locally at the same level, I set up on my own to work around my children (two girls aged 3 and 1).  I wanted to help others with my HR knowledge, ideally so that they can stay with their current employers rather than having to look for a new role (legally you need 26 weeks continuous service to apply for flexible working).

 It must be rewarding to know you have helped someone in that way.  What would be your advice to anyone, parent or otherwise, who wishes to work more flexibly?

 I would say firstly have a think about what you want and what would work best for you. Always have a least two options and ask for a trial period if needs be. I would also say start with having an informal chat with your manager – you never know it might just be a YES!

 Great advice, sometimes the informal route works well.  However, what about those who have had a flexible working request declined?

 Always use the right of appeal, there aren’t a lot of options when it comes to flexible working, so put in that appeal. Try and negotiate and sell the benefits of flexible working.

 For the employers out there who might be reluctant to allow flexibility for fear of “opening the floodgates”, what would be your advice?

 I always say to this – everyone’s individual circumstances or reasons for wanting flexible working or even not wanting flexible working are different.  Just because one person might want it, it doesn’t mean everyone will.  Even if they do, it’s unlikely they will want the same pattern. 

I agree.  Also, I always wonder what employers fear – ultimately, staff who can manage their work around other responsibilities are more likely to be committed, loyal employees.  Often the flexibility then works both ways. 

 Tell me more about your work with Pregnant Then Screwed and any other partners.

 I worked as a volunteer for PTS for 2 years running the flexible working helpline.  I helped over 300 mums which was amazing, I gained a lot of research from this. After having my second daughter I decided to stand down due to time commitments but continue more in-depth support through my business.

 Presumably you practise what you preach and work flexibly.  What do you do to relax? (or is that a silly question with you having young children!)

 I do work flexibly!  I have two days a week childcare and work two evenings when I need to.  I wish I had more time to relax but I do take great enjoyment from my work, so that makes it easier.

 I do find having a bath really helps me relax, as well as reading.  I also love a holiday when I can.  As a real treat I will have a spa afternoon.

That is a treat, you’ve reminded me to take some time out too! 

Thanks so much for the insight Anna, it’s been really interesting to hear about your experiences and to find out what you offer others in a similar position.

 Anna is based in Hertforshire and specialises in flexible working.  You can connect with her via the following social media links:

  • Instagam – “HR.Puzzle”