How do I negotiate accommodations that I believe would help me return to work?
It is best to work together with your employer to come up with accommodation ideas that will help you resume working. Negotiating is a process that may require some compromise to get to an agreed upon solution. Here are some ideas to prepare your discussion.
- Present information on restrictions and limitations based on medical information.
- Have written recommendations on hand from your healthcare team.
- Make a list of job duties that concern you.
- Think of reasonable suggestions to help overcome challenges at work. See workplace accommodations for job accommodation ideas.
- Request what you need only based on restrictions and limitations.
- Be ready to give details of the accommodations you need.
Example: “My doctor thought these might be ways to improve my productivity at work while I cope with recovery from cancer.”
Tips on negotiating work accommodations
- Anticipate positive conversations with your employer.
- Stay open to your employer’s needs and suggestions.
- Make constructive requests.
- Avoid taking a rigid stance.
- Focus on mutual interests.
- Realize that you may not get everything you want.
- Try not to take it personally if negotiations do not go well.
If you need help:
If you expect problems or you do not feel comfortable negotiating accommodations on your own, and if the following people are available to you, ask for help from:
