Benefits of Telecommuting

The benefits of telecommuting are many to both the employee and employer. First, let's look at some of the top benefits to the employee.

• No Commute - This is a big one, especially in the days of high gas prices and congested traffic. The commute back and forth to work can literally add hours onto your work day.
• No Expensive Wardrobe Needed - You can work in your jeans or sweatpants (I'm sure you've heard about "working in your pj's" although I think it is good to get ready for the day when working.)
• More Time With Family - You can be home with your kids and still have a job. You will have to work this out because you will need to have some time to yourself to work and be productive. But it doesn't normally need to be from 9 to 5.
• Flexibility - As mentioned above, the hours you work can be much more flexible and this is one of the big benefits of telecommuting.
• No Time Off Needed for Sick Children - When your children are sick and need to be home from school, you can be there with them. There's no need to take off from work because you work at home!
• Vacations Are Easier to Plan - Obviously, you will still need to ask for time off, but it may be easier than if you worked in an office where you have to schedule around everyone else.
• No office "Politics" - You don't have to get caught up in gossip or politics that can go on in the office environment.

Now, let's look at the benefits of telecommuting to an employer.

• No Extra Workspace Needed - Many times, employers need extra help but they don't have the office space to put anyone else. Telecommuting gives them the best of both worlds - more assistance but no more space needed.
• Higher Productivity - Many times employees that work from home are more productive, due to less stress over child care and other home issues.
• Increased Employee Motivation - Employees are bound to be more motivated to do a good job when you are allowing them the flexibility of working from home.

As you can see, the benefits of telecommuting to both the employer and the individual are numerous. It is not a "perfect" solution but most obstacles can be overcome with some working at it. In the end, there will be some long-term benefits.