The morning commute may be something many workers dread. Waking up early, getting ready, cramming in a quick bite to eat and running out of the house are all-too-familiar steps for most in today's workplace.
On the contrary, some people wake up, turn on their laptops and get started. Working from home is a reality for many as Internet access and mobility become more widespread, but the trick for both employees and small business owners is figuring when it is a good idea for the staff and the company.
Staying productive out of the office
One of the biggest fears managers have about letting staff members work from home is a possible dip in productivity. Losing quality workers to the temptations provided by home life may be a scary concept, but there are steps business owners could take to keep a financial plan on track.
To begin with, a home office should be just that – a separate space where other distractions can't intervene, noted Kerry Hannon, contributor to Forbes. Not only will this area be a good place for workers to stay focused, but it may also be a tax deduction. For this to be possible, the business can't offer an office, and the person has to use their own room solely for work. However, in order to make sure, every employee or business owner should consult their tax advisor before making any changes.
Always stay in contact
The best financial plan may be bolstered by business growth, and that goal could be hampered by working from home. The idea that an employee is out of the office means that it is more difficult to build relationships, network and potentially achieve promotions, according to Hannon.
Therefore, while the daily work schedule can take place outside the office, regular meetings and company events should be attended by everyone, including those who work from home. This way, employees and small business owners still appear accessible and engaged in the corporate atmosphere.
For business leaders, working remotely may provide ample opportunity to build new relationships outside of the current business. However, the people who currently work in the office shouldn't be ignored either. Colleagues may not view the perks of working from home favorably, which may lead to tension for a small business. In order to combat this, managers should always take the extra step when communicating – such as calling instead of emailing – to demonstrate a high level of commitment.
When employees should be allowed to work remotely
There are a number of benefits to getting out of the office – including higher morale, more freedom and lower costs – and with quality mobile banking options, managing finances while working from home is easier than ever.
Although it may not sound ideal, a small business owner needs to decide when to allow employees this luxury. Instead of basing the decision off of the job itself, managers should make the choice on a case-by-case basis, according to Entrepreneur magazine. A financial plan could thrive with productive workers, and regardless of job requirement if the staff members themselves have earned the privilege, they should be granted it.
To help clarify this issue, small business owners may want to require employees to schedule working remotely a week or so in advance and make the telecommuting policy less flexible, Entrepreneur magazine noted. Doing this should help prevent staff members from taking advantage of the situation, while maintaining efficiency.
More smart financial tips involve creating a unique approach, depending on the company. Not every work-from-home plan is created equal, and each business should define the boundaries in a specific way. In the end, it comes down to productivity. Wherever employees are most successful is where they should be, which may provide a boost to any small business.