What if I told you that you could work at home in your pajamas? Don’t believe me? Welcome to the wonderful world of telecommuting!
What is telecommuting, and how can it change your business? Whether you’re an employer or employee, you need to learn about telecommuting. Keep reading to get all the details about this growing trend.
What is Telecommuting?
It’s no surprise that technology is streamlining businesses across the board. Telecommuting is one way that businesses have found more efficiency. So, what is the definition of telecommuting?
Telecommuting means working from home or somewhere outside of a centralized office. This feat is possible in large part thanks to the Internet.
More employees are requesting to work from home. At the same time, more employers are offering virtual positions. What’s driving this trend?
The bottom line is that telecommuting is cost-effective, efficient, and even boosts productivity. That doesn’t mean it’s without its disadvantages, though.
So, what types of virtual workplace pros and cons come into play with telecommuting? Get the in-depth answers below.
Advantages of Hiring Remote Workers
Telecommuting has plenty of benefits for both employer and employee. Here are some of the advantages telecommuting has to offer:
- No daily commute to work (environmental benefits)
- Reduced expenses (vehicle maintenance, gas money, office expenditures)
- Increased scheduling flexibility
- Fewer sick days
- Increased productivity
- More diversity in the workplace
- Reduced employee turnover
- Increased ability to hire those who need accommodations like the disabled and elderly
- Distance is not an issue
These advantages all make telecommuting attractive for businesses and job seekers alike. Both parties must be comfortable using technology like the internet, e-mail, and telephone.
Otherwise, a telecommuting agreement would likely fall flat.
Disadvantages of Telecommuting
Hiring a remote employee may seem daunting because you never see them face-to-face. These concerns are understandable. What other potential disadvantages come along with telecommuting careers? Here are a few:
- A fixed location is necessary for some jobs
- Common technology issues causes problems
- Communication concerns
- Reduced human interactions
- Household distractions
- Time-zone confusion
While technology allows for e-commuting, it’s also usually one of the major hurdles. Technology isn’t perfect. Sometimes a virtual employee loses connection to the Internet.
Other times, important technology breaks. Ensure you prepare your employees for such events. Teach them how to search online for a cell phone repair near me and what to do if a computer breaks.
Potential safety concerns are also a growing issue. Don’t underestimate the threat of cybercrime. Instead, take your online safety seriously.
Like it or Not: Remote Work is the Future
What is telecommuting? In essence, it’s the use of technology to complete work tasks regardless of location. Telecommuting jobs have increased by over 115% in the last ten years.
The growth doesn’t appear to be stopping any time soon!
Have you ever held a telecommuting job? Are you an employer who recruits work-from-home agents? Let us know your thoughts about telecommuting by leaving a reply in the box below.
