by JennM

Created on: July 07, 2009

Telecommuting is the future...and already some of the present. There is actually so much potential out there for telecommuting such as several office jobs, technical support, marketing, etc. Of course, then there are jobs that can't be done by telecommuting such as daycare centers (unless you run an at-home daycare, I guess), banking, postal employees.

But for those of you that are in a position that could be handled from a remote location outside of the office, then start working towards it now. Show what a good employee you are. Show up on time everyday if not early, minimize any unnecessary time off from work, be a self-starter....basically, show your boss that you are a valuable employee and difficult to replace.

At my company I did medical billing and payment posting...something that could be done from home. When I became pregnant with my first child I asked about being set up remotely so I could continue working yet raise my child at the same time. The request was turned down. After quiting my job and having my baby, I was asked to return to work either full-time or part-time after being gone for five months. They thought I had a good work ethic and really wanted me back. I agreed to go back on a part-time basis. I then found out I was pregnant with my second child. I had then moved up into more of a human resource position. Once that baby was born they immediately agreed to let me telecommute because they already knew what it was like to lose me once.

I am definitely not trying to brag about how great of an employee I am. I am simply trying to show how following the rules and being an asset to your company can help your case.

When bringing the case of telecommuting up to your boss I would first make sure that you are in good standing with them...not on any type of work probation, etc. I would then discuss with him/her the qualities your bring to the company. Do you bring in a lot of money to the company? Are you a fast and accurate worker? Are you capable of working without supervision and has it already been proven?

Once your boss is reminded of what you can bring to the table, see if he is willing to do a test run. Maybe one day a week to begin with. Depending on the size of the company, the cost of getting you set up to work remotely might be an issue. If that is the case, maybe offer to half the initial costs with him. After all, it will probably be worth it to you if you get to work in your pajamas out of your own house.

If you are given the opportunity to telecommute on a trial basis (or even permanently) prove that you are responsible enough to get your job done in the same amount of time (or faster if possible) as in the office. Always make yourself available during working hours. Always answer your phone and check your email frequently. This will show that you can be productive from a remote location and are always just a phone call away.

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