Your preparation
Your ticks are saved only in this browser. Nothing is sent to us.
Know what you need
Do the homework
In the conversation
Afterwards
More than half (55%) of the caregivers in Care.com's 2026 survey had turned down a promotion, raise or new opportunity because of their dual caring responsibilities. Some of those were the right call. Some were made because nobody asked whether there was another way.
A clear, specific request gives your manager something to say yes to. It also keeps the conversation about how the work gets done, rather than whether you're still committed to it.
If a promotion comes up while you're caring
You don't have to decide alone or straight away. Ask what the role would need from you in hours and travel, and whether any of it could be arranged differently. Then run the numbers: the caregiving career cost calculator shows what turning it down adds up to over a few years. Sometimes it's still the right choice. It just shouldn't be the automatic one.
Questions people ask
Do I have to tell my employer why I need flexibility?
That depends on your employer's process and where you live. Many people find a brief, honest explanation helps. Check your company's policy and official guidance for your country.
What if the answer is no?
Ask what would make it workable, or whether a shorter trial is possible. Get the reason in writing, and look at whether a different arrangement would meet both needs.
Sources
Keep going
Too late at 50?
A 30-day checklist for testing a new direction at 40 or 50 in small, real steps.
Planning the big move
From 'one day we'll move' to a date in the diary: a step-by-step relocation checklist.
Questions to ask before you hire a financial adviser
Neutral questions to ask a financial adviser before you hire one, with official lookup tools.
