| If your proposal to telecommute is inspired by your | | | | include this bit of information in a brief, straightforward |
| newborn infant or small children, your boss has | | | | manner. |
| probably figured out your motivation. Or, the boss may | | | | How to Address Dependent Care in Your Proposal |
| know about your frail and elderly relative because | | | | The way you say it is important in conveying this issue |
| you've taken time off for related reasons. | | | | as part of the "business case" you are presenting. |
| Before you present your proposal, remember that the | | | | A poor choice of words would be something like, |
| expected norm of telecommuters is to make any | | | | "Each workday, I'll drop off my elderly mother at the |
| necessary caregiving arrangements, inside or outside | | | | adult daycare center, which is located 15 minutes from |
| the home; it's unrealistic to think you can be the primary | | | | my house." |
| caregiver of a child or elderly relative while focusing on | | | | A better approach: "I've lined up a full-time daycare, |
| the work of your employer. | | | | located 15 minutes from my home office." |
| Your boss might not ask it directly, but the question | | | | Or if, for example, your mother-in-law lives with you |
| about child or elder care while you are working is very | | | | and she will care for your baby during regular working |
| likely in his or her mind. | | | | hours, don't write, "My mother-in-law will watch the |
| Mention the care arrangements you've made as the | | | | baby while I work." |
| last item under the Schedule section of your | | | | Instead: "I've arranged for full-time in-home care for my |
| telecommuting proposal. | | | | child so that I can work without interruption." |
| It should not be detailed; one line is adequate. Unless | | | | How you present your case can impact your boss's |
| you believe its inclusion will backfire in your case, | | | | decision, so choose your words and strategy carefully. |