The Benefits of Telecommuting

Telecommuting is growing at a rapid pace in the U.S., with almost 20% of the workforce performing their jobs in an offsite location. It is becoming a more viable option for workers as companies increasingly embrace the idea. The 40-hour office job is undergoing a change as off-site offices, flex hours and teleconferencing become more commonplace.

The concept of telecommuting includes many types of employees. A medical billing professional might complete her tasks from home and report to a doctor’s office. A desktop publisher might work for different companies on a freelance basis. It can also include a bookkeeper who works from home two days a week, or a real estate agent that conducts most of his business in the field.

1. Increased productivity – It enables employees to get their work done in a more efficient manner. There are typically less distractions out of the office. Individuals can focus on work without experiencing interruptions, such as drop-in visitors, additional assignments, etc.
2. Reduced stress – It allows workers to be more in control of their day. They don’t have to deal with a lengthy commute or hectic office environment. They are also less likely to become ill.
3. Flexible schedule – It provides employees with the power to decide when to work. They can tailor their schedules to meet the needs of their professional and personal lives by choosing when to start and stop working.
4. Reduced travel time and costs – It lowers the commuting time to and from work, as well as curbs costs related to transportation, day care, dry cleaning, etc. As a result, there is more time and money for interests outside of work.
5. Better balance of work and family – It enables individuals to devote more effective time to work, while being available for family responsibilities.
How do employees find a telecommuting position? There is a vast amount of resources on the Internet. These sites detail the steps to finding a work-at-home opportunity by providing helpful tips, job listings, and facts about telecommuting.

Career Guidance: A is for Attitude
It may come as a surprise, but most small-business owners say that attitude is more important than a solid set of job skills when it comes to looking for new employees. They’re not saying that they don’t consider job skills important; however, first and foremost, they want their employees to have positive attitudes.
You can probably relate. Nobody wants to be around someone that is negative or complaining all of the time. This ideal incorporates into the workplace. A positive attitude fosters a positive work environment. An upbeat employee is more likely to be productive, motivated and well liked.

Top 5 ways you can project a positive attitude?
1. Put on a happy face – You can’t help but feel good when you smile. It is also contagious. When you smile, your co-workers will smile and so on. There will be a positive energy in the office.
2. Focus on the task at hand – Don’t think about what went wrong yesterday. We all make mistakes. If you give your work 100% of your attention, you will have the concentration to do a good job.
3. Stop the complaining – We all experience things that we do not agree with or do not like. However, instead of lingering on the negative, choose to forget about it and move on. A positive front will go further to advance your career.
4. Create an inviting work space – You can create a positive work environment by keeping things organized. Clutter often leads to frustration and missed deadlines. Also, add a favorite photo or keepsake.
5. Keep a positive outlook – Look at each day as a new challenge. By focusing on the positive, you will be more likely to get excited about work. Think of all the possibilities the day has to offer.

A positive attitude is important, but it isn’t everything. There are many qualities that add up to a successful employee. Remember to practice good work habits, follow directions, and use competent communication skills. It is also essential to dress suitably, use appropriate behavior, and demonstrate good job skills and knowledge of work operations. Remember that a good attitude can get you ahead, while a bad one might stifle your chances for success.