Having flexibility in a career is something that all people for in all walks of life.
(Sutton, 2018). Working from home give people the opportunity to be able to work
part/full time and still be able to take care of other responsibilities, such as parenting
and spending more time doing what makes them happy. Fow when an employer is
happy with their Iife, they are usually loyal, which also increases effectiveness of a
company.
Some advantages of teleworking include increased savings, no requirement to
commute, independence and flexibility. Some areas that one can save in versus
someone in a regular full-time position, is that there is no need to purchase special
clothing for work, gas is only purchased for leisure (depending on the situation) and
there isn’t a need to run out purchase lunch on an hour lunch. Telework also allows for
individuals to be productive in the comfort of their own home. The freedom of not having
to commute allows individuals to spend more time doing things they enjoy, such as their
hobbies or spending time with friends and family. Flexibility of hours is a very common
advantage in telework because many people can’t be confined to typical work shifts,
due to different situations.
Telework is not only beneficial for the employee, but also the employer. Flexibility
options increase productivity. The statistics from JD Edwards and American Express
employees, show that employees who work from home are more productive than their
colleagues who work in the office (Global Workplace Analytics, 2014). Another benefit
for employers is that turnover rates are reduced. Willingness to recruit remote
employees expands the potential of talent. Finally, with the flexible work options they
are more cost effective. There isn’t a need to have office space for every employee,
absences are reduced.
Just like any other occupation, telework has disadvantages. One disadvantage is
that working from home creates a difficulty in showcasing your accomplishments
because you’re never experience face to face with your co-workers and/or managers.
Managers need to feel that you’re accomplishing something. Also, there is significantly
decreased human interaction.
Disadvantages that the employer could face is that the employee could be
distracted, depending on other aspects of their lives. This could potentially limit
productivity. They may be distracted with other family members that are home during
their shifts, this also include children(s). Also, since they are in their comfort place, they
could be more focused on household duties, drawing them away from their career and
responsibilities.
References:
Kratz, G (2018). 5 Benefits of Telecommuting for Employers and Employees. 1 Million
for Work Flexibility. Retrieved from
https://www.workflexibility.org/5-benefits-of-telecommuting-for-employers-and-employes/
Reynolds, B (2011). Advantages and Disadvantages of Telecommuting Jobs. Flexible
Work Options. Retrieved from https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/telecommuting-
advantages-and-some-disadvantags-for-good-measure/
