Step 1: Prepare your case
The first step to requesting smart working is to prepare your case. This means outlining the benefits of smart working for both yourself and the company. Highlight how it can increase your productivity and efficiency, help you balance your work and personal life, and reduce commuting times and costs. Additionally, make sure to address any concerns your employer may have, including accountability and communication.
Step 2: Know your company’s policy
Before you go ahead with a smart working request, it’s important to know your company’s policy on remote work. Some companies may have a strict policy against remote work, while others may embrace it. Research your company’s policy and ask HR for clarification if needed. Knowing the company’s policy will help you to tailor your request and address any concerns your employer may have.
Step 3: Choose the right time
Timing is important when it comes to requesting smart working. You want to choose a time when your employer is most receptive and when it’s appropriate to discuss remote work. Avoid asking during a time of high stress or when your company is going through a major change. Choose a time when your employer is more likely to be open to discussing new ideas, such as during a performance review or when discussing future goals.
Step 4: Make a formal request
Once you’ve prepared your case, researched your company’s policy, and chosen the right time, it’s time to make a formal request for smart working. Be clear about the type of remote work you’re proposing, whether it’s full-time, part-time, or occasional work from home. Explain how it will benefit both you and the company and address any concerns your employer may have. Be sure to present a clear plan for how you will stay accountable, remain productive, and stay in communication with your team.
Step 5: Provide evidence
It’s important to provide evidence to back up your request for remote work. This could be in the form of case studies, statistics, or personal experiences. Highlight your previous successes and achievements while working remotely, or provide data from similar companies who have adopted smart working strategies. Show your employer that smart working is not only feasible, but it can also benefit the company in the long run.
Step 6: Be open to compromise
Finally, it’s important to be open to compromise. Your employer may not be ready to offer you full-time remote work, but may be willing to offer part-time or occasional remote work. Listen to your employer’s concerns and be willing to find a solution that works for both parties. Remember, the goal of your request is to create a mutually beneficial arrangement for you and your employer.
In conclusion, the key to requesting smart working is to be prepared, know your company’s policy, choose the right time, make a formal request, provide evidence, and be open to compromise. Remote work offers many benefits for both employees and employers, and with the right approach, it can be a win-win situation for everyone involved.