Do you need an extra day off per week for whatever reason? But do you find it difficult to bring this up with your employer? Then know that there are many options and that your employer cannot simply refuse you! Do you also want to work less? Then you can read about your rights in this blog.
Of course, it must also be financially feasible. But do you realize that if you want to work less, there are opportunities for this within our work culture.
The WAA, the Adjustment of Working Hours Act, has been specially created to support the employee in his or her choice for an adjustment in the number of working hours. This legislation states, among other things, that an employer is not entitled to terminate an employment contract, for example, because an employee has asked to adjust his working hours. And this law is generally closely followed by the judiciary.
Of course it is difficult for some employers to adjust the working hours within certain positions. This may be because, for example, a certain customer contact is required, or because someone fulfills a support function for a number of other employees within the company. Think, for example, of someone who takes care of the schedules.
If you want to work less, the requested adjustment in working hours can only be refused in exceptional cases. For example, if the employer can demonstrate with figures that the company's interests are at risk. An employer will then have to show that he has made efforts to have the hours filled by another employee.
The employee is expected to show a certain flexibility with regard to the way in which the hours are allocated in the week. In connection with efficiency, the employer can, for example, ask to divide the hours over all days in that week, or to divide them over at least 4 days. If that is not what the employee had in mind, then the employer must substantiate this wish again to the court. If it comes to that, of course.
But let's face it… a good cooperation stands and falls with the mutual relationships. So the main thing is that you first try to find a solution together before you possibly go to court. But if you are cornered, make sure you inform yourself about your rights!
