How To Work From Home One Day Per Week
More people than ever are seeking ways to work from home.
If you're curious about transitioning into remote work, starting with one day a week is an excellent strategy.
But how do you approach this topic with your employer?
With this game plan that we have put together for you.
In this article, we will teach you everything you need to know about asking your employer to work from home one day a week. You will get 23 actionable tips to turn you into a remote worker in no time.
Why Only One Day Per Week?
While many are making the leap to full-time remote work, there's a sweet spot that remains alluring: working from home one day a week.
Imagine the scenario. It's your dedicated day to work from home. There's no daily commute, no office distractions, and you have the comfort of your own space. It's a day where you can harness deep focus, drive productivity, and also enjoy the comforts of home.
By opting to work from home one day a week, you can test the waters, find your rhythm, and possibly evolve into a more permanent remote role.
But how do you go about convincing your boss to let you work from home for just that one day? And how do you ensure that this day becomes one of your most productive days of the week?
To make this a reality, you need to know the right steps to convince your boss and ensure your productivity doesn’t skip a beat.
So that's what we are going to show you.
Without further ado, here are the 23 tips that will have you working from home one day per week in no time.
23 Actionable Tips for Asking to Work from Home One Day a Week
1. Research Companies Policy on Remote Work
Before making a move, it's essential to delve deep into your company's stance on remote work. Understanding their existing policies will give you clarity on how to frame your request.
If they have a flexible approach, you're already on solid ground.
If they are concerned about the challenges of handling remote workers, understanding their reservations will help you address them more effectively.
2. Document Your Productivity
Solid evidence can speak louder than words. Instead of just saying you can be effective working from home, show it.
Track your accomplishments, tasks completed on time, and instances when you went beyond the call of duty.
Present this documented productivity when discussing the idea of working remotely.
3. Choose the Right Day
Not all weekdays are created equal. Some days are rife with team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and other collaborative activities.
You'd want to opt for a day when the office buzz is relatively low. It's easier to convince your boss when you demonstrate that your absence won't disrupt the workflow.
4. Anticipate Concerns
Like a game of chess, think two steps ahead. What concerns might your employer have? It could be about remote team collaboration, meeting availability, or even potential distractions at home. Once you've identified these, come up with well-thought-out solutions to present proactively.
5. Highlight Benefits for the Company
Your employer's primary concern is the company's well-being. Highlight how letting you work from home one day a week can be beneficial.
Talk about reduced overhead costs, the potential for increased productivity, and even the positive impact on employee morale.
6. Test the Tech
Before you propose working remotely, ensure your home is equipped with the necessary tech infrastructure. From a reliable internet connection to essential software and communication tools, be prepared.
Also, familiarize yourself with best practices for remote work. This guide on working remotely from another state is a fantastic resource to start.
7. Set Clear Boundaries
It's easy for work-life boundaries to blur when you're at home. Define clear working hours and breaks.
This not only ensures you maintain a work-life balance but also provides transparency to your employer about your availability.
8. Use Previous Precedents
If your company has allowed remote work in the past, even occasionally, bring it up. Highlight successful instances where employees worked from home without any hitches. It's reassuring for employers to know there's a precedent.
9. Provide a Trial Period
Instead of diving headfirst into a long-term arrangement, suggest a short trial. A month or even a couple of weeks can be a good starting point. This gives both you and the company a chance to assess the feasibility and make necessary adjustments.
If you're considering longer remote stints in the future,this article on working remotely from another country for a month might be insightful.
10. Communicate Effectively
Communication is the backbone of remote work. When not in the office, it becomes even more crucial to keep your team in the loop about your progress, challenges, and availability.
Regular check-ins, prompt email responses, and being available for meetings can make a world of difference.
11. Ask During Performance Reviews
Your annual or semi-annual performance review isn't just a reflection of your achievements; it's an opportunity. Discussing work flexibility during this time can be strategic, especially when you've consistently showcased high performance.
This setting can emphasize how this arrangement could be a reward or an avenue for even greater productivity.
12. Stay Available
While you're not physically in the office, staying mentally present is pivotal. Prompt responses to emails, attending scheduled meetings, and being reachable during work hours are essential.
This demonstrates responsibility and shows that you're just as connected and involved as when you're in the office.
13. Be Transparent
Transparency builds trust. When discussing your desire to work from home, be clear about your reasons. Maybe you need focused time away from office distractions, or perhaps it's a family commitment. Whatever it is, being straightforward can strengthen your case.
14. Show Familiarity with Remote Work
Highlighting your knowledge about remote work can be persuasive. Share insights you've gained from resources like the article on how to work remotely for a US company from abroad.
Demonstrating your understanding of remote work dynamics assures your employer of your preparedness.
15. List Down Remote Job Options
If your role isn't typically remote, offer examples of similar positions that are. Familiarize your employer with the expansive world of remote work.
For instance, many might not realize the variety of roles suitable for remote work, as showcased in the list of best jobs for digital nomads and remote workers.
16. Have a Backup Plan
Life is unpredictable. If your primary reason for wanting to work remotely falls through (like a sudden change in childcare arrangements), ensure you have an alternative in place.
This illustrates foresight and reassures your employer that you're equipped to handle unexpected challenges.
17. Showcase Remote Work Benefits
While you've highlighted benefits to the company, also share insights into how remote work can be a win-win situation.
Resources like the pros and cons of working remotely can provide a balanced view, reinforcing the idea that you've considered all angles.
18. Demonstrate Self-discipline
The freedom of working from home comes with the challenge of myriad distractions. Emphasize your commitment to creating a distraction-free workspace and sticking to a structured routine. This not only highlights your discipline but also ensures your employer of your dedication.
19. Follow Up
Persistence can pay off. If your boss or HR needs time to contemplate your proposal, show your continued interest by following up. This serves as a reminder of your request and underscores your enthusiasm for this arrangement.
20. Engage in Remote Work Communities
Being part of a remote work community can offer numerous benefits. From learning about the best tools and strategies to networking with like-minded professionals, these communities provide a wealth of knowledge and might even help you find that high-paying remote job you are looking for.
Sharing insights and best practices you've learned from these groups can illustrate your dedication and readiness for remote work.
21. Physical Presentation Matters
Even though you're at home, dressing up as you would for an office can have psychological benefits.
It sets the tone for a productive day and also ensures you're always video-call ready. Plus, you never know when an impromptu meeting might pop up!
22. Create a Dedicated Workspace
Having a space in your home that's solely dedicated to work can be a game-changer. It helps mentally separate "work time" from "home time."
Share with your employer how you've set up a conducive environment, ensuring minimal distractions and maximum productivity.
23. Host a Virtual "Bring Your Pet to Work" Day
Working from home has its perks, and one of them is spending more time with our furry friends. Propose a fun, virtual "Bring Your Pet to Work" day where team members introduce their pets on a video call.
It's a great way to break the ice, boost morale, and showcase one of the light-hearted benefits of remote work!
Ready To Go Remote?
In today's global landscape, the way we work and collaborate is undergoing a dynamic shift.
While the desire to work remotely, even if just for one day a week, is gaining traction, it's essential to approach the idea with strategy and foresight.
The tips outlined above can serve as a roadmap, guiding you toward a successful conversation with your employer about working from home.
Making It Easier To Work Remote
But what if there was a platform designed to bridge the gap between remote workers and businesses seeking global talent?
Enter Parallel.
Parallel is an advanced platform that connects businesses with the best global talent, even if it's just for one day a week.
Whether you're an employer looking to diversify your team or a professional eyeing that remote dream job, Parallel is the answer.
Ready to dive into the future of work? Book a free demo with Paralleland discover the endless possibilities.
Want to Earn an Extra $2000?
If you're someone who believes in the power of global collaboration and wants to spread the word, Parallel has an exciting offer for you.
Join the Parallel Affiliate Program and earn a substantial $2000 for every referral. Imagine informing your boss about the benefits of Parallel – from accessing a global talent pool to ensuring local compliance and simplified payroll management.
If they sign up, not only does your organization benefit, but you also get rewarded handsomely.
So why wait? Become a Parallel Affiliateand start your journey to earning big. Remember, every successful referral means $2000 in your bank account.
With Parallel, both businesses and professionals stand to gain. Let's redefine the boundaries of work together.