You’ve made an honest assessment of yourself and determined you are good material for working at home. Now it’s time to approach your manager. Many managers think in traditional ways. They don’t want their employees working out of the environment that they are comfortable with. How can you convince them?

First, you can give them information on alternative work arrangements. This may help them to be more comfortable. You may want to go on-line to find articles on other companies who have had success with flex options.

Second, work out an agreement on what specifically you will accomplish at home. By having a list of objectives to accomplish, your boss will know that you will stay on schedule with your projects.

Third, be flexible about switching your days at home, when important events or meetings arise. This will show your employer you are serious about the job.

Fourth, give your boss a specific time you will check in every day.

Fifth, send a work progress e-mail at the end of the day. This way your boss knows what you have accomplished.

It’s important to give your boss some time to think about your proposal. Some bosses may take you up on your offer, while others will decline. If they say no, don’t be discouraged! As employers become more familiar with these new types of work arrangements, it will become easier to get approval for your own work at home arrangement.