What if I don't want to go back to the office?

Question

My company has started to discuss timelines for reopening our offices. But I have no desire to return to the office. It isn't just that I'm nervous about the potential for exposing myself and my family members to COVID (although that's part of it, of course). I've been interested in working 100% remotely for some time now, and the past several weeks have given me the chance to prove to myself and my boss that I can do my job just as well from home. Before COVID, there wasn't much precedent for people working 100% remotely at my company, though. I'm nervous that I'm going to be sent back to the office 'just because.' What should I say to my boss?? Is anyone else planning to have this same conversation?

Anonymous · Answer

Now is a better time than ever to have this conversation with your boss. You've likely had a chance to prove your ability to work from home during quarantine, which should help your case. The worst they can say is no! Maybe you could even negotiate working from home 1-2 days a week. Good luck!

LEANNE TOBIAS · Answer

Great time to have a conversation about continuing to work remotely.  Personally, I’d lead with health concerns and then mention that working remotely has not diminished/has increased your productivity.  Finish by noting that you are happy to commute into the office for team meetings and other important events.

Meagan Mosher · Answer

I would definitely make a list of pros and cons and ask.  And, also, be prepared for them to say 'no'.  I am one that I am not doing well at home right now.  If I had a chance to go back to the office, I would do it ASAP.  I would rather be one of the first than one of the last. Just my thoughts...

Madeline M. · Answer

Very understandable and I’m going through this with my company and my team.  A couple of things that those in higher positions look at that we don’t one being ‘culture’.  Although we’ve proven that we can work from home, productivity is up and we’re actually doing better with our attendance issues, our leaders may still have an old school mentality where they haven’t accepted the entire remote workforce idea.  They may just feel that they have more of a presence when they have an office full of people.  Another thing to consider are those who don’t like to work remote. Some aren’t as productive.  Then what? If you all one to work from home but not another that may open up some potential H.R. issues.  Leaders have to really look at this a holistically and take matters into consideration.

Anonymous · Answer

^^Agreed! We're now seeing that old arguments on behalf of going into a workplace don't hold as much weight as they used to. That is to say, we're proving that we really can be just as (if not more) effective working from home. Take time to document what you've been able to accomplish from home to demonstrate your continued productivity and to help make your case. Good luck!

Patti · Answer

Ask! Make sure you have a list of pros and cons, and go for it! It can’t hurt. Just be prepared for them to say “no”, too.

What if I don't want to go back to the office?

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