Just when you’ve gotten used to the taste of freedom that comes with working in your PJs, businesses everywhere are recalling folks back to the office. COVID-19 is gradually becoming a thing of the past and companies are itching for a return to ‘normal’. But, what if you’re not quite ready to trade your home office for the company cubicle?
If you’re secretly (or not so secretly) wanting to hold onto the remote work life, despite the wave of office comebacks, this guide has got your name all over it. We’re about to dive into how you can convince the boss that keeping you remote is a winning move for everyone involved.
Ready? Set? Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Know Your Stuff – The Benefits of Remote Work
First off, get clued up on the perks of remote work – and not just the personal ones, but how it can seriously benefit the company too. We’re talking about:
- Productivity Boost: Stanford says remote workers are 13% more productive. Let that sink in.
- Cost Savings: Companies save on operational costs, and you save on gas. It’s a win-win.
- Employee Happiness: Work-life balance gets a serious upgrade with remote work, meaning happier employees and less turnover.
- Eco-friendly: Less commuting equals less pollution. Earth says thank you!
Step 2: Tackle Their Concerns Head On
It’s time to address the elephant in the room: your boss’s worries. Communication hiccups, productivity nosedives, setting a trend they’re not ready for – these are likely on their mind. Show them that tools like Slack, Asana, and Zoom are the heroes we need to keep things running smoothly. And don’t forget to reassure them that you’re still the rockstar employee they hired.
Step 3: Flaunt Your Remote Work Success
Got a track record of working remotely? Great, flaunt it! If not, fear not. Highlight your self-starting, proactive, responsible nature – these are gold in the remote work game.
Step 4: Suggest a Trial Run
A full-on switch to remote work might be too much, too soon. Propose a trial period instead. A couple of days a week for a few months should do the trick. During this time, make it your mission to prove that your output doesn’t dip, it soars.
Step 5: Make Your Case Like a Pro
Now, it’s showtime. Request a formal sit-down with your boss. Remember, this is a business proposal – you got this. Prepare a well-outlined document, be ready to answer questions, and present your case with confidence.
Conclusion
Sure, persuading your boss to let you work remotely might feel like climbing a mountain. But hey, people climb mountains all the time, right? By understanding the benefits, addressing potential concerns, showcasing your remote work prowess, proposing a trial period, and making your case like the pro you are, you’re setting yourself up for success.
Remember, every boss is unique, so tweak your strategy to suit their style. And if at first, you don’t succeed, take a deep breath and try again. Persistence is the name of the game.
Are you ready to fight for your right to remote work? Go get ’em, tiger. And here’s to you rocking the remote work life!