Negotiating Home Office Time

I am extremely efficient.  I know I can perform just as well working from home on Fridays. What is the best way to approach my boss about this?

Answer

This can be a tricky situation, especially in this tough economy. When there is a war for talent and the candidate is in the driver’s seat, it’s easier to get flextime. 

In addition to the economy variable, you have to observe what others (especially those there longer than you) are doing and what agreements exist.  For many firms, you have to earn the right to have flextime and that means need a proven track record of being an exceptional performer.  If no one has those agreements, you can be a trailblazer.  But proceed with caution and prove yourself a bit before broaching this topic.

The most important thing for career changers is to build valuable relationships with the company representatives that come on campus. 

Second to that, evaluate the skills you’ll need to be successful in your new field, and word your resume accordingly.  If quantitative skills are what you will need, ensure that you have included quantitative bullets on your resume.  Quantify everything possible: Your fundraiser raised 50-percent than the previous year, you cut defects by 75 percent using a new process, etc. And don’t worry that your examples aren’t in the field that interests you now.  All MBA recruiters know that most MBAs are career changers, so there are no surprises here. 

Make sure your cover letter and networking pitches define specifically how your previous skills and experience translate to your target field.  Don’t assume that recruiters will make the case for you.

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