The Telecommuting Option

© by Nancy Collamer

One of the best options for increasing flexibility in your work life without seriously impacting your earning potential is the telecommuting option.  The number of telecommuting employees is dramatically increasing.  Between 1995 and 1997 the number of telecommuters rose by thirty percent, from 8 million to 11 million and experts predict this number will continue to rise dramatically. 

Telecommuting makes sense for everyone involved.  The corporation saves the costs associated with housing a full time work staff by reducing the number of desks and offices needed for a more conventional arrangement.  Employees gain flexibility and the ability to work from home when personal needs dictate. Many employees are paid a full time salary while working as telecommuters.  Even the public wins from this arrangement with less congested highways and reduced air pollution.

 If you're thinking of jumping on the telecommuting bandwagon be aware that certain types of jobs are better suited to telecommuting than others.  In general, jobs that can be completed independently using home office technology are the easiest to adapt to a telecommuting arrangement.  Writing, proofreading, editing, data management, word processing, systems programming, graphic design and website development are all telecommuting friendly options.  Sales and customer service work requiring heavy telephone usage can also be successfully done at home. 

While it’s true that the number of telecommuting positions is increasing rapidly, many companies are still reluctant to give newcomers the option of working from home.  Consequently, the best way to find a telecommuting arrangement is to start by asking your current employer to consider allowing you to work from home as part of your work schedule.  Emphasize the benefits to the company: (lower overhead costs, improved morale, etc.) and be prepared to discuss the logistics of how you will successfully complete your work at home in a written proposal.  Be honest with yourself about your need for childcare coverage.  Unless your children are old enough to fend for themselves for a few hours (with an occasional check -in with Mom) you’ll need to maintain adequate coverage for their well-being and your sanity. 

If you can’t persuade your employer (or if you are currently not employed) and decide to look elsewhere, search for companies that already offer telecommuting as a work option.  Industries that favor telecommuting positions include insurance companies, banks, telecommunications firms, internet companies and companies in the information systems arena.  Smaller start-up companies with minimal office space and a heavy reliance on technology are also good choices for telecommuting situations.

 Sources of Additional Information:

 Books

 Telecommute!  Go to Work Without Leaving Home, Lisa Shaw, New York: John Wiley & Sons

 The Telecommuter’s Handbook:  How to Earn a Living Without Going to the Office, Brad and Debra Schepp,: McGraw-Hill