Work from Home Jobs: Why Employees and Employers Like Telecommuting

Those who want to hang up their business suits and park the commuter car in the garage permanently can take heart. Work from home jobs have increased exponentially in the last decade. Thousands are giving up the rat-race for a five-second commute from the breakfast nook to the home office. By 9 a.m., most workers have fought an hour of traffic to arrive at the office. In contrast, the telecommuter already has completed at least an eighth of his workday.

Internet technology has allowed working from home to become a viable option for many Americans. In the time it takes to fire up your computer, you can be connected to your workplace's server. Instant chat makes communication between home and office quick and convenient. Personal digital assistants and other devices add to the convenience factor and even make it possible to work away from one's home office. Work from home jobs have replaced the office cubicle for several reasons. Employees like these jobs because:

*They allow for greater flexibility. Parents can schedule work around school activities and games. People with special health considerations need not worry about leaving work for doctor's appointments. Many telecommuters are able to choose their own schedule. This makes it easy for the night owl to work during his most productive hours. It also means that those who prefer to work on weekends rather than weekdays can do so.

*The commute is eliminated. Work from home jobs are undeniably greener. Fewer daily commuters on the road equals a big reduction in carbon emissions annually.

*Work from home jobs save employees money. Not only do they spend less on gasoline, they save money on clothing, too. Business suits aren't cheap. Employees who don't have to worry about a wardrobe save hundreds, sometimes thousands, more dollars of yearly income.

*They tend to encourage better productivity. Most individuals who work from home claim they get more done. This is probably because they aren't distracted by the noise and disruptions found in most offices.

Employees aren't the only ones who like work from home jobs. Employers like them, too. This is probably why there are so many more than there were a decade ago. Employers appreciate:

*The ability to recruit and retain good employees. Employers know that workers who have the option to work from home will be more loyal. This is reflected in lower turnover rates and savings in training costs.

*The satisfaction of reducing their company's carbon footprint. With so much focus today on becoming greener, companies are taking social responsibility seriously. Employers who grant work-from-home jobs keep drivers off the roads. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions. It may even be a selling point which helps to boost profits.

*The cost efficiency. With more employees working from home, less office space needs to be maintained. This can save money in many areas, including the cost of leasing space, janitorial expenses, electricity and more.

*The increased productivity. Employers recognize that staff members who work from home tend to be more productive. Better productivity means higher profits for the company.

Some companies allow staff members to work entirely from home. Others combine telecommuting with one or more days of office time. Either way, work from home jobs are advantageous for both employers and employees.