Is Telecommuting in Your Future?
ningcontentI was recently interviewed for a piece on telecommuting for CNN’s Your Money. So many people want telecommuting work arrangements, but few know how to go about getting one. Some believe that these opportunities exist on a job board, but the reality is most of these listings are scams. Telecommuting arrangements evolve from relationships between employees and supervisors where there is a trusting relationship and a past record of strong performance.
If you are a job seeker hoping to secure a telecommuting opportunity in the future, target companies that tout themselves as companies that embrace workplace flexibility. Research the organizations that consistently gain recognition on the Fortune Best Companies to Work For list or those profiled as the best by Working Mother Magazine.
Telecommuting opportunities will continue to grow as the world becomes a much flatter place. Telecommuting presents enormous opportunities for employers to decrease infrastructure, technology and telecommunication costs. The arrangement can help employers compete globally in the war for talent and help attract and retain a loyal, motivated and productive workforce. But telecommuting arrangements still need to be earned. Show your employer how you add value to the company by helping them make money, save money, save time, grow the business and keep the business. Take on assignments that showcase your ability to work independently and be trusted when there is limited supervision. Build your business case for a telecommuting arrangement long before you ask for one. Once you have proved your value to the organization, negotiating a telecommuting arrangement will be easier to do.
By Barbara Safani and courtesy of CareerHub.com. The Career Hub blog connects job seekers with experts in career counseling, resume writing, personal branding and recruiting.
