{"id":16795,"date":"2021-11-29T03:54:15","date_gmt":"2021-11-29T03:54:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/urbanhuboffices.co.nz\/?p=16795"},"modified":"2023-01-20T04:31:30","modified_gmt":"2023-01-20T04:31:30","slug":"how-to-negotiate-remote-and-flexible-working-arrangements","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/urbanhuboffices.co.nz\/urban-hub-news\/how-to-negotiate-remote-and-flexible-working-arrangements\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Negotiate Remote and Flexible Working Arrangements"},"content":{"rendered":"

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the way we do business has changed dramatically. More people are working from home or in remote locations, and many are working different hours as a result. The traditional 9-5 has become less strict considering people aren\u2019t all in the same office anyway. So, if you had a taste of remote work during the pandemic and you\u2019d like to continue this sort of arrangement, we\u2019ll show you how to negotiate with your employer.<\/p>\n

What is remote working?<\/h2>\n

There are generally two types of remote work arrangements that you could negotiate with your employer.<\/p>\n

Working from home<\/h3>\n

Many people were forced to work from home during pandemic lockdowns, and many found it quite beneficial. Hours may also become flexible under these arrangements, especially if you need to drop off and collect kids from school. Whether you\u2019re given any company equipment or not really depends on the type of work you do, but if not financially reimbursed by your employer, there are tax benefits to working from home.<\/p>\n

Working at a remote location<\/h3>\n

There are several places you could set up for work, such as co-working spaces<\/a> or serviced offices<\/a>. This type of office environment is usually paid for by the employer, and rather than being just a pandemic solution, it\u2019s a more long-term arrangement. It allows businesses to have a presence in more locations, create networking opportunities, be more accessible to clients and save money on renting one large office space.<\/p>\n

How to negotiate remote or flexible arrangements<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019d rather work remotely, here are some tips on negotiating this type of arrangement with your employer.<\/p>\n

Clearly define your desires work arrangements<\/h3>\n

Every good negotiation has a starting point, or a specific request. If you simply ask your employer to work different hours, they\u2019ll likely tell you to come back when you have a clear proposal. So, get on the front foot and think about your ideal working arrangements.<\/p>\n

Do you want to work the same hours, but do it from home? Perhaps you want to work from a co-working space because it\u2019s closer to your home. Or, do you want a hybrid arrangement where you split your time between home and the office or co-working space?<\/p>\n

Clearly define your ideal work situation, and start the negotiation from there.<\/p>\n

How does it benefit the business?<\/h3>\n

Whenever you have any suggestions in your workplace, the first question your boss will consider is how it benefits the business. Most companies understand that they need to work harder at giving people a better work\/life balance, but it can\u2019t be to the detriment of the business.<\/p>\n

For example, if you have a long commute and want to work closer to home, perhaps suggest your business rents some space in a co-working area. You could highlight benefits such as:<\/p>\n