Working from home, also known as telecommuting, is becoming a more widespread option for employees thanks to technology that lets people take the office home with them. Cloud computing, smartphones and laptops create a home office environment that saves gas money, commute time and rushing out the door every morning. To convince your boss to give you this freedom, discover seven tips to asking for a telecommuting option.
1. Determine Your Needs
As many as 38 percent of American employees enjoy working from home at least one day per week. Determine how many days or hours per week you need to work from home. Your telecommuting schedule can be flexible when it comes to working one or two days per week or working a full-time schedule from the comfort of your own office.
2. Anticipate Management's Concerns
Think ahead about the concerns your manager may have about you working from home. He may bring up a lack of collaboration or teamwork, not communicating as much and fearing that you may not actually work. Alleviate these concerns first and foremost by talking about using videoconferencing software, staying in touch through smartphone apps and using software to track your work on the computer.
3. List Advantages to Your Employer
When working from home, tell your boss the advantages the company will enjoy from this option. Statistics show that people who work from home are happier and healthier, and work harder. Telecommuting fosters greater productivity and gives employees more time to get more things done.
4. Start With a Trial Run
Working from home does not need to be an all-or-nothing benefit. Offer to run this as a trial for one or two months to see how it goes. You and your supervisor can re-evaluate your options at the end of the trial period to see if your productivity improved during the first month of telecommuting. Come up with measurable metrics to monitor your progress.
5. Create Good Work Habits
Staying home to work may create more distractions. Learn to get around these distractions by treating your home office as you would a real office. Dress for work, follow a morning routine, shut off your personal cellphone, use noise-cancelling headphones to tune out your home environment, and take regular breaks as you would at work.
6. Make a Home Office Space
Take that spare room in your house and turn it into a home office with your essential work machines. You need a computer desk, a comfortable office chair, a computer, cellphone and maybe a fax machine or printer. Consider a small filing cabinet to organize your important papers. Thanks to technological advances in office equipment, you can purchase these items yourself for relatively little cost, or your company can provide this equipment as a loaner.
7. Combat Isolation
Don't feel lonely and apart from your co-workers in your home office. Check in with your manager regularly and email your team. Call your friends at work to discuss important matters, and stay connected as if you are still available in person. Instant messaging and chatting work well for telecommuting employees.
Working from home can be a win-win scenario for everyone. Have a plan before you talk to your supervisor if this kind of work life appeals to you.
Photo courtesy of imagerymajestic at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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