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The majority of workers are hopeful that the flexible work policies implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic will remain in place. According to a recent survey conducted by Bankrate, 89% of full-time workers or those seeking full-time employment expressed their preference for remote and hybrid work arrangements or four-day work weeks. More than half of the respondents (51%) even stated that they would consider switching jobs or industries in order to achieve their desired schedule.
These findings come at a time when there is a potential shift in remote work policies. Meta, for instance, plans to require its employees to return to the office three days a week starting in September. Similarly, Goldman Sachs is advocating for a full return to a five-day in-office schedule.
Despite this, there has been a decrease in the availability of remote work opportunities. According to Nick Bunker, director of North American economic research at Indeed, just over 8% of job postings on the platform offer some form of remote work, down from over 10% in the previous year. However, certain sectors, such as software development, marketing, information technology, and data science, are more likely to advertise remote work positions.
Fortunately, workers who wish to retain their flexible schedules may not need to change jobs or industries. According to career expert Vicki Salemi, employers understand the value of retaining top talent and the costs associated with replacing employees. Therefore, it is essential for job seekers and current employees alike to know how to effectively negotiate for flexible work arrangements.
Leveraging your current job
If you desire flexible work arrangements in your current position, it is important to initiate a conversation with your boss. Before the meeting, thoroughly research your company’s work-from-home policy and any exceptions that may exist. Highlight instances in which you have successfully worked remotely and received positive feedback. Additionally, identify specific benefits of working remotely for both yourself and your employer, such as increased productivity and cost savings from commuting. If you have not received a significant salary increase in light of high inflation, emphasize the financial savings associated with not traveling to the office. Be prepared to propose a trial period to test the arrangement and prove your ability to excel in a remote work setting.
If your boss is unwilling to accommodate flexible work arrangements, it may be necessary to update your resume and explore opportunities elsewhere.
Communicating your preferences during job hunting
When searching for remote or flexible positions, it is crucial to be upfront about your preferences. In the executive summary of your resume, clearly state whether you are seeking a 100% remote position or a hybrid work arrangement. Treat the discussion of remote and flexible work as a negotiation, similar to a salary negotiation. Know your boundaries and what you are willing to compromise on. During the initial stages of a job offer, negotiate the number of in-office days, with the intention of reviewing and potentially adjusting the arrangement after a few months. It is important to document any agreements in writing to ensure all parties are on the same page.
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