INSYNC
Simple rules for working from home
Working from home is a concept that is still viewed with great suspicion by Indian employers. When executed properly it is a win-win proposition for both the employer and the employee.
Before embarking on such an arrangement it is important to consider many factors.
First, recognize those who qualify for such an option, like, new mothers, employees with long commutes, and employees whose work can be effectively done from even remote locations.
Even before offering the option to the selected employees, talk to them about the responsibilities that go with this option. Clearly state what you expect from the employees in terms of commitment, channels of communication, and reporting structure.
Also, clearly highlight that working from home does not automatically mean that the person has a flexible working schedule. They need to be online and connected to colleagues during office hours for meetings, consultations and discussions over internet based chat software.
A company serious in offering this option to its employees will invest in laptops and other devices required to work from home. The major advantage of this investment is the regularity in equipment performance. If those working from home have machines as powerful as the ones in office, system incompatibilities can be avoided.
It is necessary for the employee to make a list of all the programs and files needed to work efficiently from home. With the hardware in place it is now time to chase down the tech team and get all the necessary software installed.
Discipline
Working from home requires iron discipline. You need to be as professional and prompt even if you are working in your night gown with the laptop propped up on your bed. Children in the house need to know that you are not accessible to them at all times of the day. Dressing in professional attire and having a separate home office will send them the right message and prevent many diversions.
Audits & Reports
Time audits will help the off site employees to manage their time efficiently. It will also give the managers an idea about how good they are in time management.
Detailed daily reports are necessary to track the work progress. When analysed over a period of time, these reports indicate whether the program has been profitable to the company or not.
Tech support
It will be very helpful if a tech support hotline is made available for those working from remote locations. This will help in solving any technical problems instead of using them as excuses for missing deadlines.
Electricity uncertainty!
With regular power cuts it is necessary to have a powerful back up system to run the computer for longer periods of time. If all else fails, then one needs to reach the nearest internet café with WIFI to continue their work day.
Initial hiccups are unavoidable. Managers should be kept informed of them and assured that corrective measures are being taken to rectify the problem.
Lost time should be made up by the end of the day to achieve the targets.
When such a working option is seriously pursued then the organisation can cut down on infrastructure costs and increase productivity with minimum manpower supervision.
