by Doreen Martel

Created on: January 30, 2011

While a growing number of companies now offer telecommuting positions, they are not always advertised in a job posting.  Many companies prefer to hire a person, find out how they do their job and  then may offer telecommuting opportunities. However, this should not stop someone from asking if the potential for telecommuting is available.  That begs the question how to ask if a position is a telecommute job in an interview. Here are some easy ways to work this question into the give and take of an interview.

Mention prior telecommuting roles

While the interview is ongoing, there are numerous things that are discussed. For those who have prior telecommuting experience on their resume there are some ideal times to talk about whether a position is a telecommute job.  One of those instances is when the interviewer asks "what was your favorite job and why?". At this point it is easy to mention, "my favorite job was XYZ company because I was able to telecommute 3 days a week".  Then ask the question "does this position have the potential to be a telecommuting position.

Another convenient time to inquire about telecommuting is when the interviewer is asking about roles that were played at specific companies.  "What were your responsibilities at XYZ?" opens the door to mention that telecommuting meant that new communication skills and better time management skills were developed.  This is another great opportunity for asking if the position offers any telecommuting opportunities.

When you have no prior telecommuting experience

For those without prior telecommuting experience, while it may be a bit more challenging to inquire about telecommuting, it is not impossible.  For example, if the company has a website that shows telecommuting positions, the discussion could be turned to this potential by stating "Your company website mentions that you have a telecommuting staff. Would it be possible that this position may offer telecommuting opportunities?". This opens the door to a discussion about telecommuting.

Summary

Telecommuting opportunities are becoming more common as companies realize the benefits to both themselves and their employees.  Telecommuting offers many a better work-life balance, encourages greater productivity and saves both the employee and the company money.  While many companies do not offer telecommuting immediately upon hire, it is still helpful for those being interviewed to know how to ask if a position is a telecommuting job in an interview.

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