The Top 5 Telecommuting Misconceptions

Are you currently stuck in your job, with no free time, and spending way too many hours commuting each week? Have you considered telecommuting, or asking your employer about telecommuting? Before you do, read below for the 5 major misconceptions about telecommuting:

1. I'll have more free time.The only additional free time that you will gain is the time you save by not commuting. So, if you spend an hour each day commuting back and forth to the office, then this is the time you will be able to sit back, relax, and read a book or drink your coffee in peace. However, telecommuting does not mean that you will now be using your "spare" time to do laundry, run errands, or catch up on your favorite TV programs.

2. I can watch my kids and work.If you are watching your kids, then you are watching your kids. If you are working, then you are working. You cannot do both- despite how much you think you can multitask. You simply cannot focus on a client call or e-mail, and see that your kid is sticking his or her finger into an electrical socket, and be checking the temperature of a milk bottle at the same time. Also, some employers require that while you are telecommuting, you are not the primary caretaker of your kids.

3. I want to set my own hours. Even if your employer were to allow this option, clients and customers typically call or write in during regular business hours. Mail services do not go all day either. Unless you are working on a long-term writing or presentation project, or you are dealing with international clients, you will not be allowed to work odd hours.

4. I won't have to deal with my coworkers. You may have annoying or overly demanding coworkers, or you may just not be a people person. Still, you will find yourself calling these coworkers when you become stuck on a task or need to obtain everyone's input. Conference calls usually replace meetings, and if there is a Webcam, you can be sure that people will be watching you and commenting on your pajamas.

5. My boss won't know that I'm doing other work/jobs and secretly earning more money. Telecommuters are held to higher standards than non-telecommuting employees because their bosses do not know what they are always doing. You might get away with "moonlighting" while telecommuting, but if you get caught, that activity could end up costing you your job. Don't risk it. Likewise, if you are logging into your desktop work computer from home, you may still be monitored for extracurricular activities.

In summary, don't treat telecommuting like a semi-vacation from regular work. In fact, you may have to work even harder while telecommuting in order to prove to your boss and coworkers that you are not slacking off. Also remember that, by not being in the office, you miss out on the corporate "mood", and any pertinent lay-offs or disgruntled employees/bosses who may be out to get you. Sometimes, ignorance is bliss, but not when it comes to your job and the future of your job.