The Benefits and Drawbacks of Telecommuting

Telecommuting has quickly become a hot trend in the business world today.  It cuts costs and makes our virtual world seem more connected. Some businesses are solely virtual and do not even have an actual office. If this is something new to you and a tactic you might want to try, having the  proper HR practices put into place is vital to its effectiveness.

According to Keith Regan of the Dayton Business Journal " A good telecommuting policy covers everything from hours that an employee working remotely is expected to be available ( and when those hours will take place) to details on how technological connections will be made-whether workers will have company computers or supply their own and how they will access company data- and even details on the work spaces employees are expected to maintain at home. "

Prudential Financial Inc. ran a pilot program for their telecommuting system. Now 60% of their employees practice telecommuting successfully.

If a company can successfully implement this type of work environment it can have many benefits. These include a good retention and recruitment tool and keeping productivity going in case of emergencies or pandemics. One of the drawback that has been reported is social interactions between employees in the office are limited and at times non existent. To avoid this a company could offer part time telecommuting. There are risks associated with isolated employees.

If you decide to go through with implementing this vastly popular work tool, make sure  the program has clear guideline so can avoid problems. For tips on how to adjust and amend your HR policies to accommodate telecommuting or any other HR concerns call CBR at 602 200 8500.