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Telecommuting: Is it For You?

It sounds great, working from home in your pajamas and slippers, saving on gas, saving time. But telecommuting isn’t for everyone. There’s a lot to consider before you set up your home office.

What is Telecommuting?

Telecommuting means working from a remote location, usually your home, at least part of the time.

Who Telecommutes?

A successful telecommuter has self-discipline, can work independently, and is able to set limits. People who need outside structure and regular social contact may have a hard time with the isolation of working remotely.

The high cost of gas, concern about the environment, and time pressure make telecommuting more and more popular. About 12 million employees in the U.S. telecommuted at least eight hours a week in 2008, up from 6 million in 2000.

Telecommuters range from low wage workers to highly paid professionals. With the Internet and broadband access, employers are embracing virtual options for flexibility and economy. Video conferencing, web cams, and virtual white boards make it easy for people in different places to work together.

Why Telecommute?

• You can work from anywhere—your home, the local coffee shop, or a balcony overlooking a Caribbean beach.
• You save time and money by not commuting and not eating out.
• You can usually work anytime. As long as you get the work done, most employers don’t care when you put your hours in.
• Flexible hours give you time to participate more in family and social life. You don’t have to take time off work to help out at your child’s school, go to a doctor’s appointment, or take advantage of a sunny day.
• People who are ill or disabled don’t have to give up their livelihoods; they can work from a setting that meets their needs.

What are the Downsides of Telecommuting?

• A home office takes space away from family activities. And unless you’re lucky enough to have your office in a separate room with a door, expect interruptions.
• Having an office at home invites workaholism. With your work a few steps away it’s easy to spend every spare moment on your job. This may not be good for your health or your personal life.
• If you’re new to your job, you may want to learn the ropes from veterans before working away from the office.
• For some people getting out of the house every day is important. Some people feel isolated when they work at home. No conversations around the water cooler or lunch with co-workers. You may have to find other ways to have contact with the outside world
• Your employer may or may not pay for home equipment and utilities. Be sure to weigh savings from your commute with the costs of working at home. Find out if expenses are tax-deductible.

You Decide

Everyone’s situation is different. For some, telecommuting is a dream come true. For others, it’s a nightmare. If you can make it work for you, go for it. Otherwise, don’t give up your car and your office.

Sandra O’Neill teaches college biology. Due to progressive hearing loss, she can no longer teach in the classroom. Teaching online allows her to keep working and contributing to the university. Since she can work from anywhere, she travels and spends time with her grandchildren. It’s a good arrangement for Sandra and for her employer.