What's the best way to negotiate for parental leave as a non-monetary perk?

Parental leave is a valuable benefit that can make a big difference in your work-life balance and family well-being. But how do you negotiate for it as a non-monetary perk when you're applying for a new job or seeking a raise? Here are some tips to help you get the best deal possible.

1 Know your rights

Before you start negotiating, you should know your legal rights and the minimum standards for parental leave in your country, state, or industry. This will help you avoid settling for less than you deserve and give you a baseline to compare different offers. You should also research the policies and practices of your current or potential employer, as well as the norms and expectations in your field. Some employers may have more generous or flexible parental leave options than others, and some may be more open to negotiation than others.

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2 Prepare your case

Once you have a clear idea of what you want and what you can expect, you should prepare your case for why you deserve parental leave as a non-monetary perk. You should highlight your value and achievements, as well as your commitment and loyalty to the organization. You should also emphasize how parental leave will benefit both you and the employer in the long run, such as by improving your productivity, performance, retention, and morale. You should also anticipate and address any potential objections or concerns that the employer may have, such as the impact of your absence on the team, the workload, or the budget.

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Simran Oberoi (She/Her)

LinkedIn Top Voice I Top Leadership Development Coaching Voice I Associate Director I Rewards, Compensation, Benefits I Diversity, Equity, Inclusion I Social Entrepreneur I TEDx Speaker I Visiting Faculty I Board Member
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While it might seem counterintuitive to focus on preparing a case for what is typically a right, it does help when we can explain how integral parental leave is a non-monetary perk. It has a direct impact on engagement levels and has the potential to push up discretionary effort that an employee puts in. Therefore explaining how parental leave ensures that you are able to create a balance between work and life, prevents burnout and allows employees to prioritize their wellbeing, is important. Anticipating and addressing concerns related to work management and delegation, shows how you value your organization's commitment towards providing you with this support.

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3 Choose the right time

Timing is crucial when it comes to negotiating for parental leave as a non-monetary perk. You should choose a moment when you have leverage and influence, such as after a successful project, a positive performance review, or a job offer. You should also avoid times when the employer is under stress, pressure, or uncertainty, such as during a crisis, a restructuring, or a budget cut. You should also plan ahead and start the conversation as early as possible, preferably before you announce your pregnancy or adoption plans, to give yourself and the employer enough time to reach an agreement.

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Divya Mittal

|Procurement Leader with expertise in Digitalization | MIT Scale 2023 |
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Commencing the preparation for parental leave several years ahead of the actual need is essential. This proactive approach entails building a strong foundation of credibility and value within your organization. It involves positioning yourself as a dependable, high-performing employee who consistently delivers exceptional results. Maintaining transparent and honest communication with your manager and HR is of paramount importance, especially when discussing your long-term career objectives. Demonstrating your unwavering commitment to the organization. Furthermore, it's crucial to actively seek guidance from experienced colleagues, particularly women who have successfully navigated pregnancy and parental leave within the same company.

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4 Be flexible and respectful

Negotiating for parental leave as a non-monetary perk is not a one-sided or a win-lose situation. It is a collaborative and a win-win process that requires mutual understanding and respect. You should be flexible and willing to compromise on some aspects of your request, such as the duration, the timing, or the mode of your leave. You should also respect the employer's needs and constraints, and show appreciation and gratitude for their support and cooperation. You should also maintain a positive and professional tone throughout the negotiation, and avoid making ultimatums, threats, or demands.

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5 Put it in writing

Finally, once you have reached a verbal agreement on your parental leave as a non-monetary perk, you should put it in writing and get it signed by both parties. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings, disputes, or changes in the future, and ensure that you have a clear and enforceable contract. You should also keep a copy of the agreement for your own records, and follow up with the employer on the details and arrangements of your leave before you take it.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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the tara birch

TRANSFORMING THE CHANGE NARRATIVE Enhanced Engagement • Optimised Performance • Financial Success Top Voice | Culture Change Transformation Consultant | Chief Community Creator | Holistic Success Strategist | Speaker
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Effective negotiation requires a collaborative approach. Be professional, respectful, and prepared to engage in a constructive dialogue. By presenting a well-reasoned proposal and demonstrating the benefits of your requested parental leave, you increase your chances of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.

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What's the best way to negotiate for parental leave as a non-monetary perk?

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2

3

4

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1 Know your rights

2 Prepare your case

3 Choose the right time

4 Be flexible and respectful

5 Put it in writing

6 Here’s what else to consider

Salary Negotiations

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What's the best way to negotiate for parental leave as a non-monetary perk?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Know your rights

2 Prepare your case

3 Choose the right time

4 Be flexible and respectful

5 Put it in writing

6 Here’s what else to consider

Salary Negotiations

Rate this article

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