Teleworking: A Great Work Option
Commuting doesn't necessarily have to be a part of your workday - at least not every day. By teleworking, or working from home one or more days a week, you can cut out the commute. It's definitely not for everyone, but if you're self-motivated, organized and have projects that don't require face-time every day, then teleworking might be for you.
People working from home find their productivity increases and generally have higher job satisfaction
Most companies already allow for flex-time or other flexible work options so check with Human Resources to find out if your company also offers teleworking. If not, approach your employer with examples of projects that would be suitable, and identify why you're an ideal candidate for this arrangement.
If you can work from home twice a week, saving an average of four hours of commute time (1 hour per trip), that's 208 hours a year or 8.6 full days you'll get back in one year!
Benefits for Employees
- Use the time saved for other important tasks.
- Save money on parking fees, fuel and car maintenance or transit fares.
- Improve your productivity experience higher job satisfaction.
- Improved quality of life work-life balance.
- Reduce your personal carbon footprint and the wear and tear on roads and highways.
- Eliminate a stressful commute
Telework Benefits for the Community
- Fewer rush hour trips means less traffic congestion and increased road safety for those that must drive.
- Improved air quality and less impact on the environment.
- Safer community with more "eyes and ears" during the day.
- Opens up opportunities for people who might not be able to get to their main office, or who live too far away.
Do you take advantage of teleworking, or do you want to discuss ways to approach your employer about this program. Submit a comment below to tell us about your experience, or start a conversation with others who already telework.