Telework

The Virtual Workspace? Is it an option for you? There is a feeling these days that being "too connected" can be filling our lives with greater stress. However, there are tools available to telework, giving you access to your own virtual office.

Whether you are self employed, or employed by a company, having to work at another location other than a base office no longer presents the challenges it use to. Advancing technologies are redefining how we work, where we work, and how long we work. According to the Telework Research Network, 20 to 30 million people currently work from home at least one day a week.

Many Corporations today are now actively participating in Teleworking and are slowly moving away from the perceived disadvantage such as, trusting their workers, workers being isolated, and data security. In fact, according to an excellent article by the Telework Research Network, the advantages of Teleworking far out way these easily overcome disadvantages. With the continued growth of remote working, the latest boom are products and services that cater to the mobile office warrior. Some of these services have been around for a number of years, such as Remote PC. Also, most professionals now fax by email, and in some cases don't even own an actual fax machine. As well, with Online Meetings many professionals now hold conferences via the internet.

Another spin on Teleworking has been the increased hiring of Online Contracted Workers. This particular segment of the employment industry is growing significantly. As an example, the demand for Technical Writers increased 1768% in May 2011.

Businesses who participate in some kind of teleworking program may reap the benefits of increased productivity and lower costs.

According to oDesk, Businesses & Workers Rely on Teleworking:

More than $16M spent on online work in May 2011
Nearly 90,000 new jobs posted
Over 2,000 new contractors join the online workforce

Focusing on the work to be completed rather than where work is completed is fast becoming the mindset of today. Companies or individuals participating in this method of working can reduce some fundamental costs such as accommodations and the costs of absenteeism. Absenteeism is a basic given in the workplace. A sick family member, unexpected storms, back logged traffic, and disruption due to strikes, are just a few realities that face companies today. Under these circumstances, being connected can be a stress reducer. It's no longer a choice of one or the other, you now have options.

The information era, although mind saturating, can be utilized for the good of the company and individual. It merely requires a shift in consciousness, a willingness to change, and an education on the tools that are available to assist in this modified thinking. Globalization is an anywhere anytime world, and using time productively is the first step to destressing. Flexible work schedules combined with alternative workplace options can be a powerful combination.