Guide to home working for managers

Introduction

Home working is the term used to describe a situation in which a worker agrees to undertake some or all of his or her job for the employer from the comfort of his or her own home. Home workers might work full or part time.

Although home working arrangements and management of home employees are not without obstacles, they can give benefits to an organisation. An arrangement in which an employee conducts some or all of his or her job from home can, nevertheless, be very productive with careful thinking and preparation, as well as regular good communication.

Why should homework be permitted?

Working from home can provide a variety of major benefits, but they must be objectively assessed against the possible drawbacks. Working from home is not for everyone, and not all occupations are ideal for doing so.

Advantages and disadvantages of home working

Advantages

• Because of the reduction in the requirement for office space and other overheads, the organisation will be able to save money.
• When it comes to recruitment, the manager may be able to cast a broader net because it doesn't matter where the employee resides as long as he or she has access to a computer and a phone.
• Individuals who cannot stay away from their homes for extended periods of time will be included in a larger pool of talent.
• Time that would have previously been spent travelling to work may now be used for productive work.
• Home employees are likely to be motivated and so productive since they have control over how and when they execute their work.
• Home employees are less likely to be interrupted by colleagues than office workers.
• The presence of a personal problem does not always necessitate the employee's absence from work, hence absence levels