Telecommuting Pros & Cons

Telecommuting continues to rise. A recent study performed by GlobalWorkplaceAnalytics.com shows that telecommuting has grown 103% since 2005. 3.7 million Employees now work from home at least half the time. 80% to 90% of the US workforce says they would like to telework at least part time. Two to three days a week seems to be the sweet spot that allows for a balance of concentrative work (at home) and collaborative work (at the office). Here are some things to consider when deciding to work in an office vs at home **Pros** - You can work in your pajamas.  No ties or politically correct attire needed. -  No traffic.  The most you will have to avoid is the laundry on the floor. - No one standing behind you. - You can potentially take a small deduction on your taxes for your home office expenses. - Save money on work-related expenses such as, dry cleaning, eating out and car maintenance. - You can still do small household chores like laundry or cleaning the kitchen. - You can sign for your deliveries instead of sending them to office and leaving them there. - You are likely to be at ease in your own space and can maintain a calmer demeanor. - A study showed that employees are over 13% more productive at home. - Studies have shown that working from home improves physical health. - Satisfy those late night work panic attacks.  Have you ever woke at 2:00am with the fear you forgot to handle a critical item?  A home office allows you to alleviate this panic. - In some case you have flexibility with your schedule. **Cons** - It takes more self-discipline to start work when you don’t have to punch a clock by 9 a.m. - You will need to be your self-motivator. - Unless your company has a substantial telecommuting program. You miss out on co-worker camaraderie. - You can never escape the office, because you’re already there. - Working too much…Studies have shown that employees working from home put in longer hours. **Tips for Working at Home** - Stay on schedule! Work like you are at a real office. Start at the same time every day and close the door at 5 p.m. - Stay focused don’t get distracted. Don’t catch up on “Game of Thrones” if you have deadlines. - Check in. Let your boss know you are at work and productive.