Is Telecommuting Really for You?

By Michele Blandino

Telecommuting is a relatively new word in our career lexicon. Virtually unheard of ten years ago, advances in computer technology and Internet capabilities have made working from home an attractive and viable option for millions of people who previously made the daily trek into the office.

Originally intended as a way to combat traffic woes in heavily populated areas, telecommuting quickly gained popularity among parents of young children as a means of helping them balance the needs of their family with the requirements of their job.

While it is true that a telecommuting arrangement can help you more effectively manage some aspects of your life, it often comes at a price. Here are some things to consider before settling into your home office:

• Who will watch the kids while you work? Many prospective telecommuters mistakenly think they can save on childcare costs by working at home. In reality, many companies have policies which require telecommuting workers to have childcare during the workday.
• Will you have access to all the software and files you will need to complete your job responsibilities if you are working from home? Some companies provide their telecommuting employees with all the systems access they need to complete their job, regardless of where they are working. Other employers may not be as generous, making the telecommuting employee less productive.
• Can you be flexible with respect to the days you work at home? While some employers fully respect and support a telecommuting worker’s schedule, others may ask that you come in to the office on days you are scheduled to be home. Your willingness to make last minute changes to your schedule can mean the difference between an accepting employer and a resentful one.
• Are you easily distracted? Those working at home are subject to a host of distractions including from well-intentioned (but misunderstanding) friends, the television, household chores, errands and even the lure of a short nap. Your ability to ignore these distractions will make the difference between a successful telecommuting arrangement and an unproductive one.

It is important that you take the time to familiarize yourself with your company’s telecommuting policies before you begin working at home. Many companies require employees to submit a formal telecommuting proposal which, among things, details how the employee will meet the challenges of working from home. Be open with your manager about your and his expectations for the telecommuting arrangement, this will reduce the chances of a misunderstanding later.