Your manager has requested everyone return to the office full-time, but you prefer the benefits of remote work. Here’s how to negotiate a flexible work schedule that suits you.

The long-awaited email from your supervisor has finally arrived, announcing that everyone is expected back in the office full-time. But here’s the catch: you’re not ready to give up the remote work lifestyle you’ve grown to love. You’ve embraced the flexibility and feel it has made you a more effective employee. Now, the challenge is convincing your boss.

You might feel inclined to issue an ultimatum, stating, “If I have to return to the office full-time, I’ll resign.” However, your employer might call your bluff, and if you value your job and salary, that’s not the best route to take.

So, how do you approach your boss about a flexible work schedule without coming across as demanding?

First, understand that you’re not making an unreasonable request.

“Many leaders recognize that employees prefer not to return full-time, and numerous companies have long embraced flexible or hybrid work options,” explains a professional development expert. “Therefore, don’t feel you’re being unreasonable or asking for too much.”

Prepare Yourself

Lead your conversation with what you contribute rather than merely stating your wants.

“People often forget that negotiation is about value, not just desire,” the expert notes. “Reflect on your accomplishments from the past year. Show how you’ve successfully worked remotely.”

Come equipped with evidence, too.

“Present instances of how your productivity improved and how a flexible schedule has enhanced your work performance,” advises a mentorship program founder. 

For example, if you’re in customer service, illustrate how a flexible schedule allows you extra time to resolve complex issues, providing customers with better answers.

Ultimately, you want to demonstrate to your employer how a flexible schedule benefits them just as much as it benefits you.

Research shows the work-from-home trend could boost U.S. productivity by 5%, according to a study. Furthermore, a survey by PwC found that 83% of employers believe the remote work shift has been advantageous for their organizations.

Sharing findings like these with your boss can be beneficial.

“With many women leaving the workforce, it’s in employers’ interest to offer flexibility to retain talented women,” she adds.

When you present your case, being clear is essential.

“Outline a complete proposal for your desired schedule,” advises the expert. “Are you looking to work remotely indefinitely, or are you willing to come in for key meetings?”

If you’re open to attending the office for specific meetings, make that clear.

“Bosses appreciate a sense of team cohesion,” she adds.

Is remote work the right choice for you?

Before you discuss maintaining your remote work setup, reflect on whether it truly suits you.

“Were you comfortable working remotely? Many aren’t,” she states. “As a leader, I understand why some managers prefer their teams back in the office. While flexibility is desirable, some employees misuse it.”

If you’ve found yourself slacking off during working hours, consider proposing a hybrid schedule instead, allowing you to work from home a few days a week.

“Suggest a 90-day trial period and then evaluate its effectiveness,” she suggests.

High-performing employees should also assess the advantages and disadvantages of remote work.

If you aspire to promotions or your workplace values relationships, being away from the office too often could hinder your growth.

“You need to understand your company’s culture and whether occasional in-person interactions would benefit your career visibility,” she advises.

Even while working from home, there are ways to stand out. Ask insightful questions during virtual meetings. If a meeting gets canceled or wraps up early, use that time to connect with a company leader.

“Be proactive and foster those relationships,” she emphasizes.

Take time to discern why you genuinely want to work from home. Is it purely for the freedom, or are you unhappy in your current position?

“Ensure you’re not just trying to escape,” she cautions. Does your job align with your strengths, interests, and skills? If it doesn’t, it might be time to consider a change.

Her new book, Next Move, Best Move: Transitioning Into a Career You’ll Love, focuses on guiding professionals through their career paths.

“Finding a job that brings you joy is possible,” she shares. “If you can’t find satisfaction in your daily tasks, working remotely won’t solve that.”