Remote, Hybrid, or Office? How to Advocate for the Work Setup You Want

This Isn't Just About Preference — It's About Career Strategy

The remote vs. office debate isn't abstract. It directly impacts your productivity, career visibility, wellbeing, and trajectory. Where you work isn't just a lifestyle choice — it's a career decision that deserves the same strategic thinking as any other.

Know What You Actually Need

Before advocating for any arrangement, get honest about what serves you best. Do you do your best deep work at home? Do you need in-person energy for collaboration? Are you worried about visibility if you're remote? There's no right answer — but there's a right answer for you.

How to Make Your Case

Lead with results, not preferences. "I'd prefer to work from home" is a preference. "When I work from home on Tuesdays and Thursdays, my output on focused projects increases by 30%" is a business case. Anchor your ask to outcomes.

Propose a trial period. If your company is resistant, suggest a 90-day pilot. "Let me try this arrangement for one quarter, and we'll evaluate based on these specific metrics." This lowers the risk for everyone.

Address visibility proactively. One of the biggest concerns about remote work is visibility. Counter this by over-communicating your progress, being highly responsive, and showing up fully in virtual meetings. Make sure your manager always knows what you're working on and what you've accomplished.

If Your Company Won't Budge

Not every company will offer the flexibility you want. If work arrangement is a dealbreaker for you, it's worth exploring the market. Many organizations now lead with flexibility as a competitive advantage — and your LinkedIn should reflect that you're open to the right opportunity.

Whether you're staying or exploring, your LinkedIn should be ready. Get an audit from Avery and make sure your profile positions you for the opportunities that fit your life.