Imagine waking up in the morning, getting the kids off to school, then settling into your own little schedule…and actually making money from home. If anything, you’ll save money on gas, wear and tear on your vehicle and even food, since you’re way more likely to eat out when you’re already out of the house. Today’s world is full of technology, which gives you the perfect opportunity to make your dream of working form home come true. However, how do you know if it’s the right choice for you?
Think about these things when making the decision to work from home; they will impact everything about your life:
- Do you work for a national or international company? The larger the company, often the more flexibility you’ll have to work from home.
- Is your company progressive? If the owners and management think out of the box and embrace change, you’re in a great position to inquire about working at home.
- Do you have a computer-oriented job? If most of your work is on the computer, present a good argument as to how you can remain productive working from home. As long as you have a computer at home, you can get the proper software to perform your job at home.
- You’ll have fewer co-worker interruptions when you work at home. If your house is quieter than working in a buzzing, lively office setting, you might be able to get more work done each day.
- Can you obtain the special supplies your job requires? For example, a design architect will need a drafting table and various drawing tools, plus a computer to work from home. The nature of your work is a huge determinant as to whether you can work from home.
- Do you have a designated workspace. Nothing fancy, a desk and chair devoted to work will suffice, along with a computer and internet connection
- How flexible is your boss? Supervisors and managers who demonstrate more flexibility in the work setting are more likely to agree to a trial period where you work at home. If your supervisor knows you well and understands your work, then they might be more willing to allow a trial work at home situation.
- During the trial period, you have an opportunity to demonstrate how well you can perform in your own home setting.
- When speaking with your supervisor, remember to mention that companies that promote more flexible work schedules benefit from less absenteeism and have reduced turnover.
- Can you motivate yourself to get your work done? If you want to work from home, it’s important for you to possess certain personal and professional characteristics. Are you a self-starter? Can you diligently follow a work schedule?
- If you’re self-motivated and extra responsible, it’s likely you’ll be able to work from home with great success.
- Can you become your own boss; should you start your own home business? Do you have unique skills that you can market and make a profit? Do you have the education you need to start your own business? Do an online search to see if you are ready for the ins and outs of owning your own business where you can work from home.
- Can you prevent distractions at home? Think about everything that could interrupt or disturb your work efforts at home. It will be necessary for you to take steps to ensure your work won’t be disrupted.
Depending on your company, the type of work you do, and your motivation, working from home might be a perfect solution. Think through these considerations to help you determine whether working in a home office setting is right for you. In the end, it just may pay off for you and your employer in terms of productivity and employee satisfaction.
