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What is Telecommuting? (Step By Step Guide)

what is telecommuting

Have you ever asked a person what they do for a living, and they reply with, “I am a Telecommuter “? With technology becoming more sophisticated by the day, remote working is a growing trend. But what is telecommuting?

 Let’s find out…

The Definition Of Telecommuting

In its most basic definition, telecommuting is working from home. It is as simple as that. However, there are a few things that usually accompany this that can help to set it apart from just working from home. 

For example, telecommuters usually have a computer and phone set up in a semi-private space in their homes where they can take calls and complete work tasks without too much distraction. They also often take advantage of technology like video conferencing and online project management tools to stay connected with their team.

The Benefits Of Telecommuting

There are a lot of benefits that come with this role, both for the individual and the company. For starters, telecommuters save on gas, ‘wear and tear’ on their car, and eliminate their commute altogether. This can lead to a significant decrease in stress levels, which has all sorts of positive benefits for worker productivity and overall health. 

In addition, they are often able to take advantage of flexible hours, meaning they can start and end their workday when it is most convenient for them. This is a huge benefit for parents who need to be home with their kids after school or for people who have other commitments outside of work.

Statistics On The Growth Of Telecommuting

In the past decade, there has been a significant increase in the number of people working from home. In 2010, an estimated 3.4% of the workforce was made up of telecommuters. By 2016, that number had jumped to 5.2%. And according to a report from Global Workplace Analytics, the number is expected to continue to grow, reaching as high as 73% of the workforce by 2030.

Since the pandemic, many companies are restructuring to fit this style of working after it has been essential for the two years of lockdowns. Now many places have gotten rid of standard offices and are offering their employees a new style of working.

Companies That Allow or Encourage Telecommuting

In recent years, more and more companies have been allowing their employees to telecommute at least part of the time. And since the pandemic, many firms have shifted to a fully remote model. Some of the most notable companies that allow or encourage working from home include online and technology companies such as Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Apple.

What Is Telecommuting? – The Roles That Are Suitable

Web Developer

While there are many advantages to working from home, it is not the right fit for every role. In general, jobs that are well suited for this type of working arrangement are those that can be done independently and do not require face-to-face interaction. 

This includes roles like:

  • Writer: Either content or copywriting, this role can easily be done from home.
  • Graphic designer: If spending your afternoons in a design cave does not suit you, then telecommuting might be the way to go.
  • Social media manager: Most of this role can be done remotely, with the exception of meeting with clients or attending events.
  • Software developer: One of the most popular remote roles, this job can be done from anywhere in the world as long as you have a good computer.
  • Project manager: With the right tools, a project manager can easily coordinate a team from afar.

While there are many benefits to telecommuting, it is important to make sure that it is the right fit for you and your role!

The Disadvantages Of Telecommuting

With all the highs, there is always a low and, in this case, the cons of working from home. One of the biggest disadvantages is working in isolation.

 This can lead to feeling disconnected from your team and could impact your ability to collaborate effectively. Another downside is that it can be difficult to establish and maintain a healthy work-life balance when you are working from home. It is easy to find yourself working long hours and not taking enough time for yourself.

Ample distractions at home…

Additionally, it can be challenging to stay motivated when you are not in a traditional work environment. Without the structure of an office, it is easy to get distracted and have a tough time staying focused on your tasks. 

Finally, costs. Although you may save money on your commute and buying lunch out, working from home can come with unexpected costs, like purchasing a new computer or printer or constantly running the aircon/heater. There are pros and cons to telecommuting that you should consider. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages to decide if this type of working arrangement is right for you.

Tips For Successfully Telecommuting

If you are considering making the switch to this style of working, there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success. 

  • It is important to have a dedicated space in your home where you can work without too many distractions. This will help you stay focused and get into a productive mindset.
  • Establish set working hours and stick to them as much as possible. This will help create a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout. 
  • Invest in the right technology, like a quality computer and reliable internet connection. This will ensure that you are able to stay connected with your team and complete work tasks efficiently.
  • Make sure to take breaks throughout the day and give yourself time to step away from work. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressed out.

How to Convince Your Boss to Let You Telecommute

If you are interested in telecommuting but your boss is not on board, there are a few things you can do to try and convince them. 

  • Do your research and put together a proposal that outlines the benefits of telecommuting for both you and the company. 
  • Offer to trial remote working for a set period of time, like two weeks or one month, to show that it can work. 
  • Be flexible and willing to compromise. For example, you might agree to come into the office for important meetings or to complete certain tasks.

Setting Up Your Home Space For Telecommuting

Setting Up Your Home Space For Telecommuting

If you have successfully convinced your boss and you are going to start working from home, it is important to set up a dedicated workspace. This will help you stay focused and motivated and avoid feeling like you are always on the clock. 

  • Choose a quiet spot in your home where you can work without distractions. 
  • Make sure you have a comfortable chair and a good desk or table to work at. 
  • Set up your computer and other equipment in a way that is ergonomic and suits your needs. 
  • Decorate your space in a way that makes you feel happy and productive. Make sure you have a good internet connection and all the software you need to be installed. 
  • Alternatively, find a nearby coffee shop or co-working space that you can use as your office away from home.

Companies That Hire For Remote Work 

Well, let’s begin by first answering What Is A Remote Job and What Are Freelance Jobs? And to gain better insight, you’ll also want to know The Benefits Of Working From Home, as well as the best Flexible Jobs That Let You Set Your Own Hours and Telecommuting Jobs With No Location Requirement.

No matter what industry you’re in, we’ve covered a wide variety of job opportunities, for example; Great Remote Computer And Tech Jobs, or how about the Companies That Hire For Remote Work From Home Customer Service Jobs, the Companies That Hire For Remote Marketing Jobs, and the Companies That Hire For Remote Travel Agent And Hospitality Jobs in 2023.

We also cover the Companies That Hire For Remote Work From Home Healthcare JobsCompanies That Hire For Remote Health Coach Jobs, along with Companies That Hire For Remote Sales JobsCompanies That Hire For Remote Education Jobs, and finally, Companies That Hire For Remote Consulting Jobs.

What Is Telecommuting? – Final Thoughts

Well, it is the future! And by the future, I mean a time that is not too far away when we are all working from home and robots have taken over the world! 

But until then, let us enjoy the benefits of working from our pajamas (or no pants at all) while we still can! Whether you are trying to convince your boss to let you work remotely or just setting up your home office for telecommuting success, these tips will help make it happen.

Good luck, and enjoy working from home!

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