The pandemic changed how we work, with many swapping our cubicles for kitchen tables. But now, as more companies ask employees to return to the office, you might wonder how to keep your remote gig. Don’t worry – I’ve got some tips to help you stay in your comfy pants while everyone else dusts off their work shoes.
First things first: Talk to your boss. Be honest about why you want to keep working from home. You may be more productive without office distractions or have moved far away from the office. Whatever your reasons, lay them out clearly and calmly. Show how remote work has been good for both you and the company.
Next, prove that you’re a remote work superstar. Make sure you’re always on top of your tasks and hitting deadlines. Be extra responsive to emails and messages—you want your team to feel right there with you, even if you’re miles away. Use project management tools to show progress and keep everyone in the loop.
Flexibility is key. If your company wants people in the office sometimes, see if you can compromise. You could come in once a week or for important meetings. Showing that you’re willing to be flexible might make your boss more open to letting you work remotely most of the time.
Stay connected with your coworkers. It’s easy to feel out of the loop when you’re not in the office, so try to chat with your colleagues regularly. Schedule virtual coffee breaks or join in on office celebrations via video call. The more connected you are, the less likely you’ll be forgotten about essential projects or promotions.
Keep learning and growing in your role. Take online courses or attend virtual conferences to improve your skills. Share what you learn with your team. This shows you’re committed to your job and add value to the company, even from afar.
Be prepared to negotiate. Consider your willingness to compromise if your company wants you to return to the office. You could accept a pay cut to keep working remotely or be okay with coming in for quarterly meetings. Know your limits and be ready to discuss options.
Document your remote work successes. Keep track of projects you’ve completed, positive feedback you’ve received, and how you’ve saved the company money by working from home. Concrete examples of remote work wins can be a powerful tool for making your case.
Network within your company. Build relationships with people in other departments who also work remotely. The more allies you have, the stronger your position. Plus, you might learn some new remote work tricks from others in the same boat.
Finally, know your worth. If your company won’t budge on remote work, it might be time to look for opportunities elsewhere. Many companies are now fully remote or have hybrid options. Feel free to explore the job market if your current employer can’t give you what you need.
Remember, the world of work is changing, and remote jobs are here to stay. You can keep your home office setup with effort and intelligent planning while others return to the daily grind. Stay positive, be proactive, and show your company you’re a valuable asset—no matter where you work.