Telecommuting

Telecommuting is a Commute Mode

We consider telecommuting (working from home) a type of commute and one in step with the goals of the goClub--to connect the Aggie Community with lower-cost and lower-stress commute options. As well, telecommuting is a favorite goClub commute mode among many Aggies because it allows for more work-life balance while maintaining productivity...maybe even increasing it!

TELECOMMUTING THROUGH AN EMERGENCY

Telecommuting isn't just an excellent commute option--often mutually beneficial for both employer and employee--it has become a critical tool for emergency situations. Working from home helps reduce the spread of sickness by minimizing face-to-face contact. Also, if the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches unhealthy levels during wildfire season, telecommuting helps maintain business continuity until it is determined safe to return to in-person work.

Are You Telecommute-Ready?

Telecommuting is not an uncommon practice anymore and an attractive option for many employees and employers. Still, if you're interested in telecommuting as a regular, long-term commute option, that's a conversation you'll need to have with your supervisor.

Ask yourself some questions:

Can my work be done via telework?
Do I have the right hardware (i.e. laptop, home computer)?
Do I have the right software?
Does my laptop or home computer need VPN access?
How will I keep connected with my supervisor (i.e. Skype, text, email)?

Determining whether you are ready to telecommute really hinges on whether your particular position allows for you to work out of the office and/or if your workflow can be structured around a regular part-time work-from-home workday. If the answer is yes, Human Resources at UC Davis offers a start guide for teleworking.

They suggest that you:

Watch the “Telecommuting Basics: Maximizing Productivity as a Remote Employee” video in the UC Learning Center (60 minutes)
Read through A Guide to Flexible Work Arrangements at UC Davis
Complete a Flexible Work Arrangement Form/Proposal

Benefits of Telework

There’s no shortage of studies showing a path forward for implementing telework for employers and employees. Financial resource, Fundera, summarizes the benefits employers might see if they allow their employees to work from home, which includes:

Innovation | When an employee works remotely, they can work in a setting they feel most comfortable in to spur their creativity.
Productivity | Working remotely can actually boost productivity for many telecommuters.
Work-Life Balance | A healthy work-life balance saves employees from chronic stress and helps them refrain from sacrificing aspects of their personal lives.
Employee Engagement | Gallup found that engagement is highest when employees worked remotely part of the week and in the office the remaining time.
Reduced Absence | Employees who would have called off to deal with an illness or a busy schedule can instead work from the comfort of their own couch.
Worker Retention | Letting employees work from home can help cut back on your business’s turnover rates by offering employees a fringe benefit they may want to stick around for.
Cost Savings | Having employees work from home means you can opt for office space that is smaller and less expensive, reducing the cost of utilities and rent. You can also save on office furniture, coffee, snacks and more.