Score One for the Home Workers: How to Persuade Your Boss for More Remote Days
Increased number of remote work days granted.
Let's face it, the traditional 9-to-5, five-days-a-week office routine isn't everyone's cup of tea. Yet, not all employers are open to employees wanting a more flexible work schedule, including more remote workdays. Here's a guide to help you argue your case.
Negotiation Game Plan
When negotiating for more remote workdays, focus on job-related arguments rather than personal preferences to dispel any concerns about productivity. It's about convincing your boss that working from home actually benefits the company.
Here's what you can use as your ammunition:
Improved Productivity: Studies show that employees working from home can be significantly more productive. By structureing their workday flexibly, they tend to work more concentratedly. Remember, it's the results that matter, not the location.
Efficient Use of Time: Instead of wasting time on commuting, that time can be used more productively for the company. During peak periods, this argument can be particularly persuasive.
Cost Savings: By working from home, companies can save on utility costs, cleaning, and possibly travel expenses. Additionally, the company's sick leave rate might decrease due to lower chances of infecting colleagues.
Eco-Friendly Decision: Since the need to commute to work is eliminated, the company's carbon footprint improves.
Better Work-Life Balance: Home office often allows for better juggling of work and private life. However, this point should be subtly mentioned; objective arguments are more convincing.
Watch Those Arguments!
While arguments like needing to care for children or relatives might seem logical, they can backfire. Employers might assume that employees are not productive when working from home. Instead, focus on the benefits of remote work for the company.
Strategic Moves for Negotiation Success
Timing is crucial. Ideally, bring up the topic during appraisal periods when your work performance has been positive. Employers are more agreeable when they are satisfied with their employees and understand their work processes.
Be prepared to addresses your employer's concerns. You might want to propose a trial period to test out the new work arrangement.
When to Call it a Day
If your boss still shows no flexibility despite a well-prepared argument, it might be time to reconsider your employment. Look out for job offerings that promise flexibility during your job hunt. During interviews, ask about the specifics of their flexibility policy.
Sources: ntv.de, awi/dpa
- Work culture
- Flexible work
- Productivity
- Company savings
- Employer satisfaction
Enrichment Data:
Negotiating for More Home Office Days: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare Your Case
- Gather Data: Studies show that remote work can increase productivity by up to 13%. Show data to support your arguments.
- Understand Company Culture: Adapt your approach based on the company's needs and culture.
- Structuring Your Negotiation
- The 7 Stages
- Define Your Goals: Clearly state what you are asking for.
- Present Benefits: Discuss how remote work benefits both you and the company.
- Offer Concessions: Be willing to make compromises if necessary.
- Agree on Next Steps: Discuss what the next steps will be if your proposal is accepted.
- Contingency Plan: Be ready to address any objections or concerns your boss might have.
- Negotiating Strategies
- The 5 "P's" of Successful Negotiations
- Prepare: Gather data to support your arguments.
- Plan: Adapt your approach based on the company's culture and needs.
- Participate: Engage in active communication during the negotiation.
- Propose: Suggest mutually beneficial solutions.
- Pursue: Follow-up on agreed changes to ensure they are implemented.
Navigating Objections
- "We Need Everyone in the Office for Meetings."
- Suggest using video conferencing tools to maintain collaboration.
- "We're Concerned About Productivity."
- Offer to set clear goals and metrics to measure productivity.
- "We're Not Sure About Security and Data Protection."
- Discuss using secure VPNs and encryption methods.
- Citing the efficiency of vocational training for remote work, discuss the potential increase in employees' productivity, as they can structure their workday more flexibly and work more concentratedly, benefiting the company.
- By pointing out the financial benefits, such as utility cost savings, reduced travel expenses, and lower sick leave rates, demonstrate how finance can be optimized for the company with more remote workdays.
- Highlight the advantage of career development and education-and-self development through vocational training opportunities, as employees can balance their lifestyle and personal-finance priorities while continuing to progress in their careers.
