How to Talk Your Boss into Letting You Telecommute to Work
We've all fantasized about working from home in our PJs, with no grueling commute or annoying colleagues. Make it a reality by getting your boss on board.
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Between crazy bosses and creepy coworkers, it's a wonder you get any work done at all. Here's a little help.
You Will Need
- Persuasive arguments
- Willingness to compromise
Steps
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Step 1
Build a case
Add up the time you'll save by not having to commute to work. Jot down all the daily distractions that go along with working with others, like being drawn into office pools, birthday celebrations, and watercooler chats. Build the case that you will be more productive at home.
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Step 2
Schedule a meeting
Request a meeting with the boss. Say that you've found a way to become more efficient and you'd like to talk to them about it.
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The best time to have a meeting with a manager is midmorning, during the middle of the week. Studies show that's when they're least busy.
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Step 3
Be reassuring
Assure your boss that you'll be available during the same hours that you are working now. Tell them that you'll come in as needed for special meetings or projects.
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Step 4
Request a trial run
Suggest that you try telecommuting on a temporary basis, after which they can revoke or revamp the arrangement if it's not working to their liking.
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Step 5
Compromise
If your boss turns you down, ask if you can try the arrangement just one or two days a week.
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Step 6
Make a bold offer
Still no dice? Consider offering to take a small pay cut in exchange for the luxury of telecommuting. The average U.S. worker spends over $200 a month in commuting costs, so offering to take a salary cut equivalent to that expense will help them save money without affecting your bottom line.
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Thirty-seven percent of workers polled said they'd take a pay cut of up to 10 percent in exchange for the opportunity to telecommute full time.
