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Telecommuting jobs (work at home jobs) come along with a lot of perks, but most often that does not include benefits like health insurance, life insurance, pension, or 401k accounts. There are exceptions of course, but for the most part, a decision to work from home will require a few sacrifices in exchange for the advantages gained from telecommuting.
For that reason, telecommuting is more often a logical choice for stay-at-home mothers who can take advantage of benefits provided through their spouse's employer, college students who are still covered by their parents' insurance plans, and retirees who already have their own coverage.
In addition, telecommuting job seekers will often discover that most work from home jobs pay less than traditional jobs performed in the workplace. How much less? Sometimes as much as 50% less.
One thing to remember about companies that employ telecommuters is that they are trying to save money and cut costs by having a remote workforce. However, this is not such a bad thing!
Not only do the employers save money, employees who work remotely from home can also save a substantial amount of money. By avoiding long commutes they save money on gasoline and vehicle maintenance, not to mention the lack of need for a business attire, meals on-the-go and more. In a year's time, these saved expenses can easily make up for any loss in income.
There ARE employers who will offer a higher salary with benefits to telecommuters, but most often these companies also place more stringent requirements on their employees. For example, if you were hired by one of these companies, you might be required to work from the office for several months or even a year to "prove" yourself. Even once you were permitted to work from home, you might still need to go into the office once or twice a week for meetings or training. You might need to attend teleconferences on a regular basis, or be subject to more frequent performance reviews.
However, when most people begin looking for a job to do from home, they are often seeking a flexible – or even more relaxed – work arrangement and prefer a greater level of freedom. They don't want to deal with workplace meetings or teleconferences.
If that describes you, know that there are definitely companies that don't require this level of participation – they are glad to offer a paycheck in return for quality work and you never have to step foot into the office. But once again, you may have to sacrifice a higher salary and benefits package for the freedom you will gain.
So, if you have decided that working a telecommuting job is for you, ask yourself which aspects of working from home are more important to you? Do you absolutely need benefits? Do you have to make a certain salary in order to cover your living expenses? Or do you just need a way to bring in some extra money from home without all the extras?
Considering all of this before you begin your job search will save you time and allow you to obtain the type of job that will work best for your unique situation.
Why does the new American workforce dig telecommuting so much? Employees love telecommuting because it creates flexibility to balance work and personal life, saves money, protects the environment, and reduces commuting time.
Bosses dig telecommuting because it can help them to expand their office hours, reduce absenteeism, expand their labor pool and workforce without having to buy new buildings, and reduce their need for other additional supplies and space.
However, if you're one of the millions of Americans that is searching for reasonable accommodations due to a disability, telecommuting probably has more meaning to you than just saving time and money. It also has an air of freedom and dignity – you'll be able to start a new career, with part or full-time hours, as well as benefits. Telecommuting jobs can provide a person with reasonable accommodations and the skills to have a lifelong career working from home, off of much more than an SSDI or SSI check, with potential for full benefits.
There are many different types of work from home opportunities available via new technology. Some common work at home positions may include:
• Customer Service/Call Center
• Sales and Marketing
• Virtual Assistant / Administrative Assistant
• Online Teaching /Tutoring
Of course, as with any position, it is expected that you will have the skills necessary to complete the job's tasks successfully, so you may need some formal job training before performing a job search and applying, otherwise, you may be sorely disappointed.
Before applying for any telecommuting job online, keep the following questions in mind:
• Do you have an up to date computer that can handle software required to work from home?
• Do you have a reliable, high-speed internet connection?
• Do you have a phone line that can be dedicated exclusively to your work?
• Do you have a quiet and organized space in your home to designate as your home office?
• Do you have the organizational and computer skills required to work from your home?
• Are you a self-starter?
• Are you able to stay on task and not get easily distracted?
If you've answered no to any of these questions, then you may need to spend a little more time in preparation, and you may want to get some assistance from some of the following resources:
Your State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Office
Your local VR office can help you secure a job that is in line with your abilities and skills and can help identify job skills training programs.
National Telecommuting Institute (NTI)
One program your VR counselor should look into is the National Telecommuting Institute (NTI). They work with vocational rehabilitation agencies to enable individuals with disabilities to train for and work online. For more information, visit NTI online at http://www.nticentral.org.
Your Local Center for Independent Living (CIL)
CIL offers a range of services to people with disabilities. Most CILs offer employment counseling can refer you to employment programs in your area.
Your State Telework Financial Loan Program
The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) oversees grant programs that help individuals with physical or mental disabilities obtain employment. One program funded by the RSA is the Telework Financial Loan Program, which assists individuals with disabilities purchase computers and other equipment needed to work from home. To identify the organization that administers the program in your state, contact the RSA office via phone at (202) 245-7468