So, You Think You Want to Be a Telecommuter?
Author: Debra A. Dinnocenzo
Do you yearn for a more balanced life and a more flexible approach to work? Do you dream about productive workdays that don’t include the drain of time and energy devoted to commuting? Do you spend time in traffic (on the highway or sitting in an airplane seat) and wonder if there might not be a better way?

More than 25 million Americans have discovered a better way! Teleworking has become the work alternative of choice for ever-increasing millions of workers and managers. And the trend is projected to continue at an accelerated rate. It’s estimated that by 2004, at least 25% of American workers will telework during some portion of their workweek.

What are keys to success and productivity for the growing legions of teleworkers? It’s clear that teleworking is not for everyone. For those who thrive on plenty of interaction with co-workers or who associate the traditional workplace with the motivation necessary to work, teleworking presents some challenges. Teleworking is also not a viable childcare solution since mixing work with childcare typically leads to diminished results in both areas.

Teleworking is ideally suited for workers who are relatively independent, effective time managers, skilled in planning and organizing, self-motivated, highly disciplined, technically proficient and who have a strong performance record. Those workers who telework effectively—and those who want to—are likely to benefit from the following tips for teleworking success:

BE CERTAIN TELEWORKING IS RIGHT FOR YOU.
Learn what’s required in terms of personal traits, work style, job requirements, organizational systems support, home office environment and family support. Address areas of concern through planning, training, negotiation and agreement-setting discussions.

DESIGN A PRODUCTIVE—AND SAFE—HOME OFFICE.
Utilize an office layout that is conducive to the type of work you do and your individual work style. Be certain that your home office provides sufficient light, ventilation, and work surfaces, as well as separation from noise and other distractions. Ensure that your electrical system supports your requirements, and avoid hazards such as excessive use of extension cords, the absence of power-surge protection and stacks of boxes and other clutter that block walkways.

AVOID BAD HABITS, DISTRACTIONS AND TIME WASTERS.
A myriad of temptations await the teleworker and threaten your productivity: socializing with neighbors, doing household chores, watching television, spending time with your family, making frequent trips to the refrigerator. Teleworkers must be committed to using time wisely and staying focused on the tasks at hand.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY BALANCE.
Teleworking will not inherently provide a perfect work/life balance. If you were a workaholic before teleworking, chances are your workaholism will be just as bad (if not worse) after beginning to telework. Because the workplace is so close and always available, teleworkers must be especially disciplined about not overworking.

NEGOTIATE EXPECTATIONS AND AGREEMENTS.
Both with family members and with co-workers, disagreements can arise. Teleworkers should anticipate areas of potential conflict, set clear expectations and reach agreements before controversy occurs.

ESTABLISH A SOLID FOUNDATION OF TRUST AND A REPUTATION FOR RELIABILITY.
Remember that your boss, clients or colleagues may wonder if you’re really working when you telework. So, be sure your performance is beyond reproach. Strive to be known for your dependability and availability. Be prompt in returning calls, reply to e-mail quickly, use a mobile phone for greater accessibility and let people know the best ways to reach you right away.

About the Author

Debra A. Dinnocenzo is a dynamic speaker, author, trainer and expert in telework, virtual teams, and work-life balance. She is president of ALLearnatives and author of “101 Tips for Telecommuters.” Visit www.allearnatives.com to subscribe to the FREE e-newsletter, “WorkWisely,“ schedule a presentation, or obtain additional resources. To learn more about finding a telecommuting job, visit the ALLearnatives sponsored site, www.jobstelecommuting.com