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Do you already have an idea of what your boss will accept, or are you coming in totally empty-handed?
It's crazy how many people walk into negotiations in "I'd really like to" mode without thinking about how it benefits the company. You gotta make it a business case, not a favor request. Like, if you say "I'm more focused at home, zero distractions," back it up with proof - deadlines met, projects wrapped up, barely any absences or lateness. If it's actually the opposite and you feel your company needs people around for team cohesion, pitch fixed days instead (like Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday in the office) rather than something wishy-washy. Bosses hate improvisation.
The other thing a lot of people forget: it's also about geography and your personal life. If you've got an hour commute to get there, that's a solid argument for cutting down office days. Or if you've got stuff to handle at home (a kid who comes home early, whatever). But that's something you negotiate, not something you just impose. And be realistic - if you ask for 1 day a week in the office at a company where everyone's there 5 days a week, people are gonna resent you. Start with 2-3 days, then adjust after 3-4 months if it's working out.
Margaux1960 asker
You're right, I haven't really calculated the benefits for the company. I'm going to prepare some concrete data before negotiating. Thanks!
You really need to know what you want before you negotiate - whether you're more productive at home or if you need your team around you. Once you figure that out, bring concrete numbers to the table: "I'd be more efficient with two days in the office" rather than throwing out vague stuff. The thing is to show your boss that it's good for the work too, not just for you. And honestly, try to see what other people are doing at your company - if they're negotiating stuff that seems crazy to you, there's no reason you should settle for less.
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