Things You'll Need:
- Good track record at work
- Good work ethic
- All the necessary equipment to do your job
- Designated work space, used only for work
- An understanding and helpful family
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Step 1
Put in your time at the office. Your boss is not going to agree to let you work from home two weeks after you're hired. The length of time that you need to work in-house can vary, from several months to several years.
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Step 2
Do your job well. Go above and beyond what is expected of you. Most of all, be flexible. Be willing to take on additional tasks outside your official position, and take on extra hours if its necessary to get the work done. Your boss may not publicly thank you or praise you, but she will notice the job you're doing. Doing an exceptional job will lay the groundwork for convincing her that you can handle the work at home.
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Step 3
Determine if, logistically, your job can be done well in a home office. Laying out a potential plan or schedule ahead of time will show your boss that you have done your homework. If you need special equipment, figure out how you will get it and install it. Be willing to shell out your own time and/or money to complete this task. Does your job need to be done only during certain times of day? Decide if you can continue to work those exact hours. Figure out where your work space will be, and how you will set it up.
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Step 4
Think of reasons your boss may balk at the idea, and come up with solutions to these potential problems. You must be ready to argue your case. Come up with possible concessions to counter this benefit over other employees, such as working more holidays than your co-workers or giving up other small benefits.
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Step 5
Approach your boss with the suggestion that you work from home. Emphasize how you can do just as good of a job, or a better job, if you can work from home. Point out all the positives. Do not bring up personal issues that make you want to work from home, such as the high price of gas or the inconvenience. Everyone has those problems and concerns and it will not help your case.
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Step 6
Be willing to listen to your boss' concerns. If she wants you to continue to come in one day a week, for example, be willing to try her suggestion. Offer to re-assess the situation after three or six months, so she can tell you if she thinks it's working out. Offer to show her your work space, if she's willing to come to your home to see it. Be open and honest about the situation.
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Step 7
If your boss agrees to your proposal, do everything possible to ensure that you continue to do a good job. Keep set work hours, if possible. Be openly available by phone and email during your work hours. If you have children, make sure they know that when you are working, you are not to be disturbed. Do not get distracted by household duties. The laundry and dishes can wait until you're off the clock. Continue to exceed expectations, and your boss will be more likely to let you continue working on your home turf.
