How To Negotiate Working From Home

Workplace flexibility is now one of the most requested benefits among job seekers — in fact, my career coaching clients ask for flexibility far more often than they ask for a pay rise. With 68% of the global workforce working from home at least once a month and 99% of employees wanting remote work as part of their career, it’s clear that flexible arrangements are no longer perks — they’re expectations.

Flexible working can include job sharing, hybrid schedules, work hubs, adjusted hours, or full remote arrangements. Working from home specifically has become the most popular option, offering benefits for both employees and employers. If you want to negotiate this arrangement (or increase your existing flexibility), here’s how to build a strong case and make it work long term.

Start Slow

Jumping from five days in the office to three or four days at home can be too big a leap. Begin by asking for one day per week or even a half-day trial. If you meet resistance, use an opportunity such as a mild cold or borderline sick day to suggest working from home "to keep germs to yourself" — and then deliver an exceptionally productive day.

Your goal is to demonstrate that you are more productive at home, not less. Once you’ve built that evidence, increasing your remote days becomes much easier. A formal trial period is an excellent way to reduce your employer’s perceived risk while giving you the chance to prove yourself.

Make It Mutually Beneficial

This is your golden phrase: mutually beneficial. Yes, working from home benefits you — but that’s not what convinces employers. Your pitch must focus on how the arrangement supports the business.

Depending on your role, your case might include:

• Reduced travel time which increases availability and productivity
• Improved focus due to fewer office interruptions
• Greater privacy for client calls or sensitive tasks
• Flexibility to respond to urgent inquiries outside core hours
• Cost savings for the organisation over time

Present a clear, well-planned proposal that shows you’ve considered the organisation’s needs first.

Show Professional Initiative

Working from home doesn’t mean disappearing. Maintain strong visibility:

• Attend every key meeting — in person if needed
• Participate actively in team discussions
• Stay informed about office updates and initiatives

Your goal is to reinforce that you are still a fully engaged and accessible team member, regardless of location.

Scream Reliability

Remote work lives and dies on trust. You must consistently demonstrate that your arrangement has zero downside for the organisation.

• Answer calls promptly
• Respond to emails quickly
• Be available for video calls without delay
• Meet or beat deadlines
• Complete tasks with visible efficiency

The more reliable you are, the easier it becomes to negotiate increases in flexibility later.

Accountability Is Everything

Expect your employer to ask for accountability — especially if previous employees abused remote privileges. Be prepared to share how your time is spent, what you’ve completed, and how you manage your workload.

Keep simple records of your tasks or deliverables, and make reporting effortless. This builds trust and also protects you should management change in the future.

For Job Seekers Who Want Remote Work

If you’re searching for a new role, be proactive. Use keywords such as:

• remote office
• home office
• telecommute
• flexible working
• work from home

Tell recruiters your preference so they can look beyond local roles. When interviewing, ask:

• Does the company currently support remote or hybrid work?
• Do any team members already work remotely?
• What flexible arrangements are available?

Remote work should be discussed openly at job offer stage — not as a surprise after onboarding.

Final Thoughts

Working from home is now a legitimate and respected work style in Australia’s current workforce. With the right strategy, communication, and professionalism, you can negotiate a flexible arrangement that benefits both you and your employer.

Use your professional judgement, follow the advice above, and enjoy the freedom, balance, and increased productivity that flexible work can offer.