The Benefits of Working from Home
As technology continues to advance, work from home opportunities are becoming increasingly popular. These options are being offered by companies of all sizes and backgrounds, and these telecommuting positions are beneficial for both the employee and the employer. Some of the most common benefits of working from home are discussed below.
Benefits for the Employer
- Employees that work from home result in a low cost reward to employers. These workers use their own resources and facilities rather than those of the company. The employer then saves money on technology costs, water, electricity, and other office equipment.
- By placing employees in an environment in which they feel comfortable, they may feel less stress. They are also more likely to be creative, and it will be easier for them to express their ideas. Additionally, office politics and problems with coworkers also become less of an issue, as these factors typically leave companies less productive when employees are working on site.
- Employers are typically able to offer employees that work from home less pay and still have high quality candidates accept jobs. This is because employees figure that they are already saving money on gas, vehicle maintenance and upkeep, and commuting expenses. They may also not need to spend money on corporate clothing, since there is no dress code when working from home.
- Employers have less liability for workers that are working from home. Office employees are the liability of the employer, and anything that may happen to them while on the premises of the company during working hours involves the company. While working from home, people are responsible for themselves and their own actions.
Benefits for the Employee
- In some cases, employees that work from home have more flexibility with their schedule. They are not required to clock in by 9AM or finish their assignments by 5PM. They have the flexibility to work around their own schedule in order to make time for other commitments and obligations. This may include errands a person needs to run or things they need to do with their kids.
- Home-based jobs can give people more family time. They no longer need to take time out of their day to get ready for and commute to work. They are able to spend their day near their family, so in the event that an emergency arises, they are close by. By carefully managing his or her time, an employee can balance both family and work more easily with a home-based job.
- Employees are able to save money that is typically used for commuting to an on-site job, such as gas, vehicle upkeep, and tolls. They will also have reduced stress levels because they don’t have to worry about rushing to get out the door and get to work, and they no longer have to deal with traffic.
- Monetary savings also include the lack of a dress code when working from home. Employees will not have to spend money on work clothes or uniforms as they would when working on-site. Child care expenses may also be reduced if the employee is able to keep their older children home with them during the day while they work.