How to Answer Why Do You Want to Work Remotely

How to Answer Why Do You Want to Work Remotely How to Answer Why Do You Want to Work Remotely You’re going through an interview for a remote position, and you feel like you’re knocking things out of the park. Then, the interviewer asks you a question that stops you in your tracks when they ask: Why do you want to work remotely? You know that mentioning your desire to stay in your pajamas all day isn’t the right way to go. But, beyond that, you aren’t sure exactly what you should say to impress that interviewer and get yourself one step closer to landing that job. Here’s what you need to know to successfully answer the question, Why do you want to work remotely: Plan ahead. There’s nothing worse than having to think on your feet in an interview. When you’re already nervous, you don’t want to have to scramble to find a suitable answer to a tough interview question. This is why it’s important for you to start thinking about what you could say in response to this question now- even if you don’t have an interview scheduled. What are some reasons that you’re interested in working remotely that the employer would also see as valuable? For example, potential answers to this question could include: Your productivity skyrockets when working in an environment that has decreased distractions. While you enjoy collaborating with your coworkers, you’re a go-getter who thrives while working independently. You’re thrilled with the prospect of working for a company you admire, without being limited by your geographical location. You enjoy the challenge of needing to find efficient and effective ways to communicate with your colleagues when they aren’t in the next cubicle over. But, you should avoid mentioning: You’re eager not to have to shower or change out of your pajamas (obviously). You think working from home means that the job is easier or you don’t have to work as hard. You don’t like being closely watched or managed. Being a self-starter is one thing, but you don’t want to appear as if you’re trying to shirk responsibility and fly under the radar. Emphasize other aspects of the position. Chances are, you don’t want this job only because it’s a remote position (and, if that is your only reason, you should probably re-evaluate!). So, it’s important that you touch on the other aspects of this role- other than the fact that it’s remote- that appeal to you and fit with your strengths and experience. Perhaps you’re excited about the opportunity to develop engaging social media campaigns. Or maybe you’re a spreadsheet whiz who already has some great ideas for how that employer could improve their reporting process. Whatever it is, make sure you touch on a few other things about the  job that excite you. Even though you’re being asked about why you want to work remotely, you can still branch out to mention some pieces that don’t directly deal with working from home. Demonstrate an understanding of the company culture. You might think company culture is unimportant- or perhaps even nonexistent- when you and your colleagues work across the country (or even world!) from each other. But, rest assured, company culture is a very high priority for companies that  are trying to build some cohesiveness and camaraderie within their remote workforce. For that reason, you should be prepared to demonstrate that you not only understand the company culture, but that you’d be a great fit with it. Perhaps you want to mention that you know you could dominate their weekly GIF contest. Or maybe their emphasis on community mindedness really resonates with you- since you already regularly volunteer at your local animal shelter. Pull out some pieces of the company culture to show that you understand what that organization is about (beyond letting employees work from home!). Be honest. Working remotely is awesome, and you don’t necessarily need to be shy about the added perks that come along with that. While they shouldn’t make up the bulk of your answer (and the tips above will help you out with that!), there’s ultimately nothing wrong with touching on the fact that you’re excited about being able to be home for your kids more or avoid a nasty commute. Ultimately, the  hiring manager understands that working remotely boasts some awesome benefits (hey, he or she likely enjoys them too!). So, briefly mentioning that doesn’t make you greedy or opportunistic- it makes you honest.