Increased opportunities for working from home

Increased opportunities for working from home

Let's face it, the traditional 9-to-5 office grind isn't for everyone. But not all bosses are jazzed about employees wanting a taste of the work-from-home life. So, how do you swing those extra home office days without making your manager's blood pressure skyrocket? Here's a game plan.

First off, remember that there's no federal law guaranteeing home office days in Germany, so it's all about convincing your superior that it's the best move for both you and the company.

Negotiating Tactics

Lay your arguments out based on your job role and responsibilities. Aim to dispel any misconceptions like you'll slack off at home (we're not chilling with a margarita and a Netflix marathon here!). Agreeing on specific productivity goals can help take the heat off.

Now, why should your manager greenlight your home office days? Here are some convincing arguments, pal:

1. Superior Productivity: Business coach Ute Gietzen-Wieland swears by it — working from home significantly boosts employee productivity[2]. Research backs her up! When employees have flexible work hours, they tend to be more focused.
2. Smarter Use of Commute Time: Ditch the traffic jam and the subway shoving? Yes, please! Instead of wasting time on transport, use that extra time to crank out work that benefits the company.
3. Financial Savings: Fewer office days mean less utilities, cleaning, and maybe even commuting costs. Plus, there might be a decrease in sick leave since there's less germ-swapping at the office.
4. Environmental Kudos: Because the commute is a no-go, the company's carbon footprint shrinks. A win for the planet and the company's eco-friendly image!
5. Work-Life Balance: Home office benefits the work-life balance, but save the personal stuff for later. The real focus is on the company's interests.

Arguments to Avoid

It might seem reasonable to say, "I gotta pick up the kids from school," or "I'd like a lunch break with my partner." But hold your horses, partner, because it won't win you brownie points with the boss. Hannes Zacher, a professor of work and organizational psychology, advises against using personal reasons. Employers might think you'll become distracted and might start to doubt your productivity.

Strategic Steps

Use your performance review as an opportunity to bring up the topic. Mention that one day of home office a week works well for you, now you'd like to try two days.

If you've already got a solid work history with your employer, lean on that. According to Gietzen-Wieland, managers are more likely to grant requests from employees they respect and trust.

Prepare for the discussion by anticipating your boss's concerns. Proposing a trial period for home office could do the trick. And, of course, set some goals for productivity to put 'em at ease.

Time to Cut and Run

What if the boss isn't budging, despite ironclad arguments? Maybe it's time for a job change. If the commute or office noise is causing a world of pain, and the boss won't listen, it might be time to hop ship for greener pastures. Keep an eye out for job listings that offer flexible work arrangements and ask about them during interviews.

Source: ntv.de, awi/dpa

• Employees
• Legal issues
• Housing
• Employers
• Home office

Germany doesn't come with a guaranteed right to home office, but it doesn't mean it's impossible to negotiate those extra work-from-home days. Here's what you need:

Showcasing Benefits for the Company

1. Increased Productivity: Positive productivity is key, so be sure to highlight that employees are more productive at home due to fewer distractions[3].
2. Cost Savings: Flexible work arrangements can translate into savings on office costs, not to mention lower chances of employees taking sick days.
3. Talent Attraction and Retention: Employees value flexibility, so offering it makes the company more attractive to top talent, reducing turnover.
4. Environmental Advantages: Fewer employees commuting means less carbon footprint, making the company appear environmentally friendly.

Addressing Employer Worries

1. Communication and Collaboration: To quash concerns about communication and collaboration, suggest regular virtual meetings to ensure teamwork is still thriving.
2. Trust and Accountability: Acknowledge the need for accountability and propose regular check-ins to show you're still on track to meet goals.
3. Data Security: Employers may worry about data security when employees work remotely. Suggest using VPNs, secure software, and adhering to data security protocols.

Negotiation Techniques

1. Research and Evidence: Arrive at the negotiation armed with data about successful home office arrangements in other companies.
2. Flexibility:Be willing to compromise, finding a balance that suits both you and the employer. A trial period, for instance, could be a negotiated solution.
3. Leverage Legal and Social Changes: Germany's new coalition agreement emphasizes digitalization and flexible work arrangements[1]. Utilize this to justify your negotiation as part of broader societal shifts.
4. Present Yourself Professionally and Assertively: Frame your arguments logically and demonstrate a commitment to high productivity.
5. To boost productivity and save costs for the company, consider advocating for vocational training programs that enhance employee skills and overall efficiency.
6. In addition to increasing productivity, well-planned workplace-wellness initiatives, such as health-and-wellness programs, can lead to a healthier and more focused workforce.
7. To further demonstrate your commitment to the company, seek out leadership opportunities within the community policy or diversity-and-inclusion sections, showcasing your ability to handle more responsibilities.
8. By adapting a lifestyle that prioritizes organization and time management, you can better balance your home-and-garden obligations with your work commitments, fostering a good work-life balance.
9. To ensure a harmonious and inclusive work environment, champion business practices that promote finance literacy, career development, and continuous learning for all employees, cultivating a culture that values growth and professional evolution.

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