Flexible Ideas for Your Small Business
One idea from the ten top ideas listed in Functional Flexibility at Work for Small Business
Excerpt -
Functional Flexibility Idea Number 2 – Teleworking: Working Remotely
HOW IT WORKS:
- Teleworking involves employees working away from the main business premises. They may work from home or some other remotely located environment. In most circumstances employees who work off-site will work from their own home, and this can occur on either a full time, part time or casual basis depending on the nature of the business.
- This flexible work option is made possible by the use of information technology. Basically, the employee logs on to their work computer remotely, while at home using another computer. The software applications available by using remote computer access are exactly the same as if the employee was sitting at their desk at work. Teleworking employees can complete all the normal tasks undertaken at work on their remote computer, including printing to the office printer and answering and sending emails.
- The availability of broadband connections around the world including people’s private homes, brings the whole concept of teleworking very much into a functional reality.
- It is always advisable to start slowly with your teleworking strategy and together with your employees explore the options to see if this idea will work effectively in your business.
HOW TO SET IT UP:
- Clear guidelines concerning the amount and type of work that will be expected from teleworking employees will need to be established at the outset. The employer needs to have a reporting mechanism to be able to check the work being completed (on a daily, weekly or a project-by-project basis).
- Your teleworking employee will still require a direct supervisor in the workplace, so you will need to ensure that your Senior Management is in full support of this workplace arrangement both on a technical and operational level.
- You will need to ensure that your employee has the appropriate tools to complete their role from home effectively. The employee will need to have direct communication with your business and will need all pertinent technology such as computer equipment and telephone (landline, mobile or both) to ensure this is possible. Some employers set their staff up with laptops and phones, whilst others use the employee’s existing set-up and simply install software.
- Talk with your employee about reimbursements for telephone calls and any other work-related costs they may incur. It is better to be up-front with these items from the start, so there are no misunderstandings later. Consider also stationery needs—will the employee stock up from work? Or will they purchase their own stationery and submit their receipts for reimbursement ? Or will they place an order with you for anything they need?
- Investigate the various information technology suppliers that offer remote working solutions, including ....
For further information about teleworking, including technical information about available IT systems, items to address and the positive effects for employees and business owners, order your copy of Functional Flexibility at Work for Small Businesses today.