How to Ask for a Remote Work Arrangement in Your Current Job

How to Make a Case for Remote Work

Productivity isn’t about where you work; it’s about how you work.

This is for our superstars who are currently working on site but feel the need to go remote on some days. Maybe you’ve noticed that your best work happens in a quiet, distraction-free environment, or that your daily commute is draining time and energy that could be better spent on actual work. Maybe you need more flexibility to balance personal responsibilities while staying productive. Whatever the reason, the idea of working remotely even just a few days a week can feel like a game-changer.

But here’s the challenge: How do you convince your employer to say yes?

The shift toward remote work has become one of the biggest workplace transformations in modern history. While some companies have fully embraced flexibility, others remain hesitant, and worried about productivity, collaboration, and accountability. If your company doesn’t currently offer remote options, you might feel uncertain about how to bring up the conversation without sounding like you just want an easy way out of the office.

The reality is that asking for a remote work arrangement is more than just a personal request—it’s a strategic discussion. Done the right way, you’re not just making a case for yourself, but also showing how remote work can benefit your employer, your team, and overall company efficiency. Many managers resist remote work because they assume employees will be less engaged or productive outside the office. Your job is to prove that the opposite is true that working remotely can actually help you work smarter, deliver better results, and stay even more connected.

So, how do you make a compelling case? How do you structure your request so that your employer sees the value instead of the risks? In this guide, we’ll break down the benefits of remote work, the key steps to crafting your request, and how to overcome potential objections.

The Perks and Benefits of a Remote Work Arrangement

Companies that embrace remote work understand that employees need the right tools and support to be productive, engaged, and satisfied in a flexible work environment. A well-structured remote work arrangement often comes with additional benefits that enhance work-life balance, reduce burnout, and improve overall job satisfaction. Here are some of the most valuable perks offered by remote-friendly companies and what they mean:

1. Home Office Stipend – Setting up a productive home office can be expensive, so many companies provide a one-time or annual stipend to help employees create an ergonomic and efficient workspace. This stipend typically covers essential items like a standing desk, an ergonomic chair, a high-quality monitor, noise-canceling headphones, or even upgraded internet services.

2. Co-Working Space Membership – While working from home is convenient, some employees prefer a structured office environment a few days a week. To support this, companies offer paid memberships for co-working spaces, allowing employees to work in professional settings without commuting to a traditional office. This is especially beneficial for employees who live in shared spaces, need a change of scenery, or want access to in-person networking opportunities with other professionals.

3. Flexible Work Hours – One of the biggest advantages of remote work is the ability to create a schedule that aligns with personal productivity peaks and life responsibilities. Instead of rigid 9-to-5 hours, remote-friendly companies allow employees to set their own work schedules as long as deadlines are met and team collaboration is maintained.

4. Unlimited Vacation and Paid Time Off (PTO) – Some remote-first companies offer unlimited vacation or generous PTO policies, trusting employees to manage their workload responsibly. This approach shifts the focus from counting vacation days to ensuring that employees take time off when needed, preventing burnout and promoting mental well-being.

5. Company-Paid Retreats and Team Offsites – To foster team bonding and company culture, many remote organizations organize annual or bi-annual retreats where employees gather in a new location for a mix of work sessions and relaxation. These company-sponsored trips serve as an opportunity for employees to connect face-to-face, collaborate on strategic planning, and build relationships that might otherwise be difficult in a remote setup. Such retreats often take place in scenic locations and include activities like hiking, cultural experiences, and wellness sessions.

6. Professional Development Allowance – Working remotely doesn’t mean missing out on career growth opportunities. Many remote companies invest in their employees' development by offering stipends for online courses, certifications, books, industry conferences, and coaching sessions.

7. Childcare or Family Support Benefits – Some remote-friendly employers recognize the challenges of balancing work and family life, so they provide childcare stipends or reimbursements to ease the financial burden of daycare or babysitting services. Others offer family support programs, such as parental coaching, mental health resources, and flexible parental leave policies to accommodate working parents.

8. Health and Wellness Stipends – Remote work can sometimes lead to sedentary habits, so some companies offer wellness stipends that cover gym memberships, yoga classes, meditation apps, or even home workout equipment. Others provide access to telehealth services, mental health counseling, and nutrition programs to support employees' overall well-being.

9. Global or Multi-Location Work Opportunities – A growing number of remote-friendly companies allow employees to work from different locations, whether it’s within the same country or internationally. This benefit, often referred to as a digital nomad policy, enables employees to travel and work from anywhere without being tied to a single office location. For those who love exploring new places, this perk provides the freedom to work while experiencing different cultures.

How to Ask For Remote Work in Your Current Job

Securing a remote work arrangement in your current job requires more than just asking, it demands a strategic approach that highlights both personal and business benefits. If you want your employer to take your request seriously, you need to present a well-thought-out case, anticipate potential concerns, and prove that remote work enhances not hinders your performance.

Here’s how to effectively ask for a remote work arrangement while increasing your chances of getting a yes.

1. Assess Your Company's Remote Work Policies: Before making your request, research whether your company already has remote work policies in place. Some organizations offer hybrid work models, while others allow remote work on a case-by-case basis. Check the employee handbook, HR guidelines, or internal communications to understand where your company stands. If there is no formal policy, see if any colleagues or departments already work remotely. If they do, you can use this as a precedent to support your request. The more informed you are about your company’s stance, the better you can frame your pitch to align with existing practices or suggest practical solutions.

2. Build a Strong Business Case: To get approval for remote work, you must prove that it’s not just about personal convenience but also a strategic advantage for the company. Many managers worry that remote employees will be less productive, so you need to demonstrate the opposite. Explain how remote work will help you eliminate office distractions, reduce commute fatigue, and improve focus, leading to higher productivity. Emphasize the positive impact on work-life balance, which can prevent burnout and enhance overall performance. If applicable, highlight how remote work can help the company reduce costs, such as lower office space expenses and utility bills. Use examples from past remote experiences even if informal to show that you can manage your responsibilities effectively outside of a traditional office setting. The more data and real-world examples you provide, the more convincing your case will be.

3. Propose a Trial Period: Rather than asking for a permanent remote work setup right away, suggest a trial period to help ease your manager’s concerns. A 30-day or 60-day trial allows them to evaluate whether remote work is a good fit without making a long-term commitment. During this period, set clear performance metrics to track productivity, check in with your manager regularly to provide progress updates, and be proactive in staying connected with your team. If you prove that your performance remains high or even improves your employer will be more inclined to approve a long-term remote arrangement. A trial period lowers the perceived risk and makes it easier for your employer to say yes.

4. Address Potential Concerns Proactively: Managers often hesitate to approve remote work due to concerns about team collaboration, availability, and accountability. Instead of waiting for these objections to come up, address them in your proposal. Explain how you will stay connected through communication tools like Slack, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams to ensure seamless collaboration. Reassure your manager that you will be available during work hours, responsive to messages, and fully engaged in virtual meetings. Show that you have a plan for time management, task prioritization, and meeting deadlines. By proactively addressing concerns, you demonstrate that remote work won’t disrupt productivity but will enhance it.

5. Choose the Right Time to Make Your Request: Timing is everything when requesting remote work. Avoid bringing up your request during peak workload periods, right before a major deadline, or in the middle of company transitions. Instead, schedule a discussion when your manager is more likely to be receptive—such as after a successful project completion or during a performance review. When you present your request, be confident, professional, and solution-oriented. Instead of simply asking for permission, frame it as a structured proposal that benefits both you and the company. For example:

"I’ve been reflecting on ways to enhance my productivity and contribute more effectively to the team. Based on my work style and responsibilities, I believe a remote work arrangement could help me focus better while maintaining strong collaboration. I’d love to discuss the possibility of a trial period to demonstrate how this can work efficiently for both me and the company."

A well-timed and well-structured approach makes it easier for your manager to consider and approve your request.

6. Stay Flexible & Open to Negotiation: If your employer is hesitant about full-time remote work, be open to alternative solutions. They may feel more comfortable with a hybrid work arrangement, where you work remotely a few days a week while still coming into the office for team meetings or key projects. Some companies may allow remote work only for specific tasks or during certain periods, rather than permanently. If you face resistance, ask for feedback on what it would take for them to reconsider your request in the future. Keeping the conversation open allows for adjustments and potential approvals down the line.

7. Prove Your Remote Work Success: Once you get approval, your next priority is to make remote work a long-term reality. The first few weeks are critical in shaping how your employer views your ability to work remotely. Be extra responsive to emails and messages, deliver high-quality work on time, and update your manager regularly on your progress. Stay engaged in virtual meetings and team discussions to show that remote work doesn’t make you less involved. By proving that remote work doesn’t affect productivity but actually enhances it, you increase the chances of making it a permanent arrangement.

Latest Worldwide Fully Remote Jobs Currently Hiring

• Talent Operations Specialist at Doist

• Card Operations Specialist at Binance

• Senior Social Media Lead (CA) at The Soul Publishing

• Operations Manager at Deel

• Senior Payroll Analyst at Superside

• Software Engineer at Sourcegraph

How to Get the Most on InclusivelyRemote as a Premium Member

Our premium subscription offers unique and amazing benefits and we want to ensure members get the most out of their premium membership with Inclusivelyremote. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate our platform and make the most of its features as a premium member:

• Bookmark Jobs for Later: Did you know you can easily save jobs on Inclusivelyremote for future reference? By clicking the save icon located on the left side of the job listing, you can save interesting opportunities to your personal bookmark list. This ensures you never miss a potential job match, even if you can’t apply right away.

Example: Found a job that piqued your interest but didn't have time to apply immediately? Simply click the bookmark icon to save it and revisit it in your "My Job Bookmarks" when you're ready to apply.

• Set Personalized Job Alerts: Tailor your job search by setting up personalized job alerts using the scroll bar in the Create Job Alert . This feature ensures you receive job alerts that match your preferences every friday directly to your inbox.

Example: Interested in remote marketing roles? Set your job alert preferences to weekly receive notifications specifically for marketing positions, making your job search more efficient.

• Access Membership Benefits: Under the Member Services section, explore your membership benefits. Here, you can download a variety of career resources designed to enhance your job search and career development.

New Premium Career Resources to Level Up

• Check Your Email Regularly for Hidden Opportunities: Keep an eye on your email daily as we send hidden remote job opportunities that are not listed on the job board. These emails will include direct recruiter contact information, giving you an edge in your job search.

• Use Categories and Tags to Streamline Your Search: Utilize the categories and different job types like " Women-Friendly", and "Travel/Relocation Support" listed in the header and footer of the website to streamline your job search. Accessing these sections makes it easier to find jobs that align with your interests and skills.

By following these tips, you can maximize the benefits of your premium membership on Inclusivelyremote and enhance your job search experience. If you have any questions or need further assistance, our support team (contact@inclusivelyremote.com) is always here to help!

Resources to Help in Your Remote Career Journey

• Join Our Public Community: We’ve created a public channel to empower you with voice-recorded mentorship, curated resources, remote job opportunities, and valuable insights. Link

• Our Resume Templates: Each template is accompanied by a comprehensive customization guide to assist you in tailoring your own resumes. Additionally, editable versions of the templates are provided for your convenience. Link

• Our Social Media Handles: For daily tips on navigating your remote work career or tips to corporate success, check out our social media handles here Link

• Introduction to Remote Work: Access our free ebook on what remote work is and how you can get remote jobs, especially other platforms to check out. Link

• The ABC of a Successful Remote Job Application: Access our free ebook on how to tailor your resume and apply to remote jobs. I have tailored a resume template you can use as well as cold mail messages in drafting your cover letter. Link

• The Remote Salary Handbook: This is the first published guide on remote work. Having been a remote worker from Africa, I know the struggles of getting good pay, I have been paid less countless times. This ebook lays down tips as well as templates to ensure no one gets to be like me. It’s currently on sale and would go a long way in your career journey. Link

Rooting for you this Month🫶🏼💡!

Yours truly,

The InclusivelyRemote Team

LinkedIn| Twitter| Instagram | TikTok | Newsletter