Telecommuting on the Rise
While telecommuting or telework has been increasingly popular for several years, recent escalation of this trend is being attributed to the high gas prices that are taking a big bite out of workers' budgets. Many workers are actively seeking jobs closer to home to cut back on gas expenses. As a result, employers are now looking for creative ways to alleviate this financial burden and help attract and retain good employees.
Can telecommuting work for your business?
Jobs that can be done independently, or that require only e-mail and phone communication, may qualify for telecommuting. And while managers may resist the loss of control, those with telework policies have found that their businesses - not just employees - benefit from these flexible arrangements. Among the outcomes:
- Increased productivity. These workers re-allocate time previously devoted to commuting. Instead, they check e-mails, begin their day's work, or prepare for the next day. Plus, they don't have distractions from colleagues stopping by their desks to chat. And because telecommuters are judged on their productivity rather than time spent in the office, they're typically even more careful to ensure that their work gets done on time.
- Reduced turnover. Staff members are happier when they're offered flexible schedules that improve their work-life balance - and that reduces recruitment and training costs for business owners. In today's economy, it pays to focus on satisfaction as a key component of long-term profitability.
- Less overhead. Since telecommuters don't require office space in your building, you may not have to expand your office space as your business grows.
The right tools for the job
In order to perform most effectively, telecommuters must be set up with appropriate technology. D&E offers several tools that can help:
- GoMeetNow conferencing software allows employees to participate in meetings and conference calls.
- VMobility Remote Access Client enables offsite workers to share files, desktops and printers; access files; and use networked applications.
- Haywire small business computer support addresses the IT needs of telecommuters. (www.haywiresupport.com)
For more information on telework, visit http://telecom.workfamily.com/. To start using D&E's telecommuting technology solutions, call 1-877-4DE-TODAY.
Do's and Don'ts for Managing Telecommuters
If you're thinking about setting up a telework plan for your employees, or if you already have telecommuters on your team, keep these tips in mind:
Do:
- Trust your teleworker.
- Make sure your business has the technology in place to support your telecommuting employees.
- Encourage goal setting, ask for periodic status reports, and give timely feedback.
- Manage based on productivity and results.
Don't:
- Check in too frequently or over-supervise your employee.
- Call at 4:55 every afternoon to make sure your worker is putting in a full day.
- Ignore your teleworker when they submit work or questions.
- Set unrealistic deadlines that couldn't be met in an ordinary work environment.