Making the Right Telecommuting Choice

If your dream is to telecommute, you’re not alone. Surveys conducted by the Bureau of Labor suggest that one in three of us would rather earn our paychecks from the comfort of our homes.  Just because you’re getting rid of the boss and the tedious commute, that doesn’t mean telework will be a breeze.  Selecting the right home-based job that matches your skills and your interests will ensure continued success in your career.   

Depending on your situation, you may be considering evolving your current position into a telecommuting job, or you may be searching for a new career that you can start at home.  According to a recent poll by the William Olsten Center for Workforce Strategies, nearly 50% of U.S. companies allow some form of flexible work plan for their employees.  And while teleworking for larger companies seems to get the most attention, the majority of home-based opportunities actually are available from smaller businesses.  That’s because small companies must constantly reevaluate their employee benefits programs, searching for innovative ways to remain more competitive. 

Who Can Telecommute?

Almost anyone in a field who uses a computer or telephone for the majority of their work can realistically telecommute.  Jobs that do not require constant interaction with clients or co-workers are also prime candidates.  However, even those positions that may seem unlikely to be converted to home-based businesses may be able to do so on a part-time basis.

With so many options and opportunities now available for women wanting to begin a career from home, the most asked question is “Which business is right for me?”.  Since every individual is different, your needs, goals and desires also vary.  Before choosing a home-based business a little soul searching needs to be done.  Answer these four simple questions to help determine what type of business is right for you:

1.   What have you enjoyed in traditional jobs?  Are there skills from previous employment that you can transfer to a telecommuting position?

2.   Do people tell you that you excel in a certain area?  Are you extremely organized or a good communicator?

3.   Would you prefer a business that is done completely at home or are you able to make outside appointments on a regular basis?  If you have young children, this is something you may need to consider.

4.   What excites you?  Find a business that really interests you – continually working on the same topic can be tiresome if it’s not something that ignites at least a little passion in you.

If you find that your dream career doesn’t quite match the current set of skills you have, evaluate the next steps that must be taken in order to pursue it.  You may find that a few extra classes or some in-office training may go a long way.

A Starting Point

Whether you’re looking to continue your current career by telecommuting, or you’re searching for a home-based business, technology makes alternative work arrangements more abundant than ever.  Look first to online job sites to hone in on available telecommuting positions.  Use search engines to find keywords and phrases such as “telecommuting”, “work from home”, “telework”, “part-time work”, “freelance”, “offsite employment” and “virtual office”.  After browsing the web, showcase your unique skills by posting your resume online with local job sites.  Many employers use online employment sites to find qualified candidates to fill both full and part-time positions.  Make sure you emphasize your ability to work independently, any prior home-based employment and other relevant experience.

Perhaps the most common way for home workers to find telecommuting opportunities is through word of mouth.  Ask friends, family and neighbors if they are aware of any local businesses looking for teleworkers.  You may even contact companies yourself to find out their policies on working at home.  Learn as much as you can about a company before accepting any work, and if possible, visit their offices so you can get a true understanding of their expectations.

Home Business Ideas

Work opportunities are no longer confined to jobs only within a reasonable commuting distance.  As you can see from the list below, there’s freedom to do almost anything you choose – from A to Z (well, almost).

With the technology revolution in full-swing, the work opportunities available to women are better than ever.  Choosing the right telecommuting job for you will offer personal satisfaction, a pay check and a better balance of work and family life.  Spend some time reviewing your skills, likes and dislikes.  With some research, the perfect telecommuting job is just waiting to be discovered!

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