My boss implemented flexi-working — but when I arrive at 10am, as I’m entitled to, she has piled up jobs that I “missed” during the first hour of the day. She then clock-watches so I daren’t be flexible at all. I’ve tried going back to nine-to-five to help her, but it just doesn’t suit me or my family. Help!

Is it any wonder that the UK’s managers have to contend with low levels of morale? When your boss implemented flexi-working, what did she think she was doing? It just shows that employers may look glossy on the surface, but unless they believe the hype splattered across their induction packs, it counts for nothing.

It sounds as if your boss is suffering from culture shock. After years of rushing to the mental shriek of the 9am hooter, she feels that ambling in at 10am is akin to you taking minutes in the nude or pinching the MD’s bum.

But if your boss is wrestling with modern office practices, that’s not your fault. The introduction of flexi-time was a decision she made, much as she may have hankered for a more Dickensian regime.

Flexible working has to suit your role. If being a PA means being there at the crack of dawn, there’s little point in having lie-ins. But that should have been discussed at the outset. Using the issue as a stick to beat you with is bullying, not communication. Whatever your job demands, don’t put up with intimidation or harassment, such as setting you impossible tasks or manipulating your workload just to make a point.

Be open with her. Explain that your flexi-working seems to cause problems for her, but that the old regime will cause problems for you. Can you compromise instead? Could you come in at 9.30am, for example? Or be on call if anything urgent arises before you reach your desk? Give her no reason to quibble. Get in at 10am, but work your full hours and don’t fall behind. In fact, make the most of it by arranging catch-ups with her once the others have gone. She may then appreciate the flexi-regime herself. Show her that you can work flexibly and still get the job done.

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