Telecommute
Telecommute
In response to the uncertainties presented by COVID-19, many of us found ourselves working from home. Because these are not normal telework conditions, even the most well-prepared companies, with formal telework programs in place, may find that there are challenges to working from home during a pandemic.
Webinar Recording – Remote Management: Getting the most from your employees.
- Answering the question: How do I know employees are working?
- Best practice tips for leading a remote team
- Managing by Results
Additional Webinar Resources
Benefits of Working Remotely
For the Employer: Increased productivity, Reduced turnover, decreased overhead for office and parking spaces, improved recruitment and retention.
For the Employee: Decreased commute time, costs & frustration, increased flexibility and control over work environment, more quality time with loved ones
For the Community: Increased neighborliness, reduced air pollution, decreased traffic congestion, enhanced economic competitiveness
What Kinds of Jobs and Tasks are Suitable for Telecommuting?
Many different jobs lend themselves to successful telecommuting. The key is not in the job itself, but in the functions and tasks which the employee will be performing. Many jobs require at least some writing, reading research, editing, working with data (entry, processing, coding, etc.) or talking on the phone. In general, telecommuters should perform tasks that don’t require significant face-to-face communication, can be accomplished independently and have clearly defined products.
Who Makes a Good Telecommuter?
Telecommuters should be self-motivated, proven, results oriented performers with strong communication skills. They need to achieve their work goals and objectives with a minimal amount of supervision and must be able to accomplish specific work tasks within a predetermined amount of time.
Defining the Successful Telecommuter
- Has little need for face-to-face contact with co-workers or customers
- Has access to quiet area or office space at home free from interruptions.
- Has access at home to needed equipment.
- Is a self-starter and able to work with little supervision.
- Reports to a supervisor who manages by results, not be surveillance or time clock.
- Works for someone who trusts him or her.
How are Telecommuters Managed?
Managers of telecommuters should be skillful, results-oriented managers who have an ongoing mutual trust and respect with the telecommuters that they supervise.
Common Questions About Telecommuting:
Do I have to telecommute full-time?
One of the advantages of telecommuting is that it’s a flexible work option. However, most telecommuters work from home one or two days a week, with time in the office on the other days.
How do I get started telecommuting?
Before developing a formal telecommuting program, it is wise to do some research and develop formal policies, as well as written agreements. Additionally, many employers prefer to start off with a pilot program as a way to “test the waters.” Traffic Solutions can help provide resources, such as sample policies and telecommuting agreements to help you develop a successful telecommuting program.
