How To Request To Work From Home (With Examples)

Did you know that 29.3 million people work from home full-time or five days a week? ^[1]

The numerous advantages like work life balance or no commute time are not only for the employees but also for the companies as 68% of IT engineers reported that they feel more productive while working remotely. ^[1]

As remote work becomes more common, you might be wondering how you can join this trend. The key lies in knowing how to ask your manager professionally and effectively. Requesting to work from home might seem challenging, but with the right approach, it can be a win-win for both you and your employer. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process, provide useful tips, and offer sample templates to help you craft the perfect work-from-home request.

Example Of Work From Home Request Letter

Here is how a remote work request letter looks like: 

How to craft one for yourself? Keep reading!

How Do You Write A Request To Work From Home?

Writing a request to work from home involves clear communication and proper justification. It can feel daunting, but breaking it down into steps makes it easier. 

Now let’s get to the point. What do you actually write in a remote work email request? 

Here’s how to structure and write your request email/ letter:

1. Start with a clear subject line. Make your intention obvious from the beginning. 

For example, “Request to Work from Home” or “Proposal for Remote Work Arrangement.” This ensures your email gets noticed and sets the context right away.

2. Open with a polite greeting. Address your manager respectfully. 

A simple “Dear [Manager’s Name],” or “Hello [Manager’s Name],” establishes a professional tone.

3. State your request clearly. Be straightforward about your desire to work from home. Avoid beating around the bush. 

For instance, “I am writing to request the opportunity to work from home on [specific days]/[full-time].“

4. Provide a reason. This is where you explain why you want to work from home. Be honest and professional. Your reason should be compelling yet concise. 

For example, “Due to ongoing health concerns,” or “To improve my work-life balance.“

5. Highlight the benefits. Focus on how working from home can benefit the company. Mention increased productivity, reduced commute time, or better work-life balance. 

You might say, “Working from home will allow me to focus better and produce higher quality work.“

6. Suggest a plan: Propose how you will manage your tasks and stay in touch with the team. Outline your daily schedule, communication methods, and the tools you will use to ensure seamless workflow. 

For example, “I will use Zoom for meetings and Slack for daily check-ins.“

7. Close politely: Thank your manager for considering your request and express your willingness to discuss it further. A polite closing shows respect and keeps the door open for further conversation. 

You could end with, “Thank you for considering my request. I am open to discussing this further at your earliest convenience.“

What Is A Good Reason To Request To Work From Home? 

Do you have a valid reason to work from home? If not, then let’s prepare one! Because when requesting you will have to give a good reason. 

Here are some valid reasons that resonate well with employers:

• Increased productivity. Explain how a home environment helps you focus better. 

For instance, “I find that working from home reduces office distractions, allowing me to concentrate more and produce higher quality work.”

• Health concerns. Mention if you have health issues that make commuting difficult. 

You might say, “Due to ongoing health concerns, working from home will help me manage my condition better and reduce the risk of exacerbation.”

• Work-life balance. Talk about how working from home helps you balance personal and professional life.

For example, “Balancing work with family responsibilities is crucial for me, and working from home allows me to maintain a healthier work-life balance.”

• Commute challenges. Highlight the time and energy saved by not commuting.

Like, “Eliminating my daily commute will save significant time and reduce stress, allowing me to start my workday refreshed and more focused.”

• Family responsibilities. If you need to care for family members, this is a valid reason. “I have responsibilities at home, such as caring for a young child or an elderly parent, that require my presence. Working from home would enable me to fulfill these duties while maintaining my professional obligations.“

Why do you need to add a good reason? Adding this detail makes your request more compelling and helps your manager see the benefits not just for you, but also for the organization.

Sample Templates For Requesting To Work From Home

Still confused? Here are a few templates to help you craft your request:

Template 1: General Request

Subject: Request to Work from Home

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally request the opportunity to work from home on [specific days]/[full-time]. I believe this arrangement will enhance my productivity and allow me to [mention your reason briefly].

I have outlined a plan to ensure that my work remains uninterrupted and I stay connected with the team. I am confident this can benefit both my performance and the team’s overall success.

Thank you for considering my request. I am open to discussing this further at your earliest convenience.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Template 2: Health Concerns

Subject: Request for Remote Work Due to Health Concerns

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to request the option to work from home due to ongoing health concerns. I believe this arrangement will help me maintain my productivity while managing my health better.

I assure you that I will remain fully engaged with my responsibilities and maintain open communication with the team. Please let me know if we can discuss this further.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Template 3: Childcare Responsibilities

Subject: Request to Work from Home Due to Childcare Responsibilities

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to request the possibility of working from home due to recent changes in my childcare responsibilities. I believe that working from home will allow me to balance my professional duties with my family needs more effectively.

I have a detailed plan to ensure that my work performance and communication with the team will remain unaffected. I am happy to discuss this arrangement in more detail and answer any questions you might have.

Thank you for your consideration.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Template 4: Commuting Challenges

Subject: Request to Work from Home to Address Commuting Challenges

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request the opportunity to work from home due to the significant time and stress associated with my daily commute. I believe that eliminating this commute will allow me to dedicate more time and energy to my work tasks, thereby improving my productivity.

I have prepared a plan to ensure seamless communication and workflow, and I am confident that this arrangement will be beneficial for both myself and the team.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to discussing this further with you.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Template 5: Improved Work-Life Balance

Subject: Request to Work from Home for Improved Work-Life Balance

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to request the option to work from home to improve my work-life balance. I believe that having the flexibility to work remotely will help me manage my personal and professional responsibilities more effectively, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.

I have outlined a strategy to ensure that my work remains uninterrupted and that I stay fully connected with the team. I am confident that this arrangement can benefit both myself and the company.

Thank you for your understanding and support. I am happy to discuss this further at your convenience.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Template 6: Trial Period Request

Subject: Request for Work from Home Trial Period

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to request a trial period to work from home. I believe that a trial period of [specify duration, e.g., one month] will allow us to evaluate the effectiveness of this arrangement.

I am confident that working from home will boost my productivity and allow me to better balance my work and personal life. I have a detailed plan to ensure seamless workflow and communication during this period.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to discussing this further with you.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Ask To Work From Home: Do’s And Don’ts

FAQs

How should I prepare for the conversation with my manager?

Prepare a detailed plan showing how you will manage your tasks and stay connected with the team. Be ready to discuss the benefits and address any concerns.

What if my manager says no?

Ask for feedback and understand the reasons behind the decision. You can suggest a trial period or propose a hybrid work model.

Can I request to work from home part-time?

Yes, you can request to work from home on specific days. Be clear about which days you want to work remotely and how it will benefit your work.

What technology do I need for remote work?

Ensure you have a reliable internet connection, a computer, and any necessary software or tools required for your job. A good headset and webcam can also be helpful for virtual meetings.

How can I ensure my productivity while working from home?

Set up a dedicated workspace, establish a routine, and use productivity tools to stay on track. Regularly communicate with your team to stay connected.

The Bottom Line

Use the clear and straightforward approach to request work from home professionally. Use the templates provided, be specific about your reasons, and highlight the benefits for both you and your employer. 

Remember to follow the do’s and don’ts to increase your chances of a positive outcome. Good luck!

Source

1. Jobera. Work From Home Statistics

Manisha Saini

Manisha is a digital writer providing guidance in career development and growth. She facilitates skill development and implementation of the right strategies for advancement. At Jobera, She documents content around the latest market trend analysis, insights, and career planning.

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