The recent news from Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer has caused a ripple in the workforce. Her management decision changed the company policy, such that employees are no longer allowed to work remotely from home. As a result, other companies are now re-examining their own policy on this matter.
What is the pros and cons of working from home?
I have been on both sides of this issue. For over 20 years I worked in an office setting and currently I am employed by AuPairCare as an Area Director which allows me to work from my home.
My current job position requires a combination of requirements such as customer service, marketing and administrative duties. Most of my day is spent communicating by phone or email. I also arrange outside appointments, interviews and marketing events, so I travel frequently and meet with existing customers as well as potential business contacts.
I have a unique opportunity to meet new people while promoting the company and I coordinate local social events for a group of au pairs (live in nannies). The au pairs provide childcare services for families and they come from all over the world, so they bring a cultural experience as well.
Working from home gives me a relaxed attitude but I still need to be professional and establish a routine to be efficient with my time. I organize my day and activities plus travel time to balance with my home life.
I prefer the work-from-home arrangement for many reasons:
- I am able to set my own hours and schedule
- I avoid the office politics and distractions
- I don't have the interruptions of meetings or bosses watching over my work
- I enjoy working independently and ask for help when needed
For some workers there may be features that they miss when working from home, for example:
Sharing and communicating with fellow employees may be important if you are inclined to need the social connection of an office.
Seeking assistance from other workers in the office or collaborating over an assignment may be helpful in a group setting.
I recommend that each employee examine the way that you work and what arrangement fits your personality. Find the right balance that is best for you.
To learn more about the company AuPairCare and how to become an Area Director, check the link above. AuPairCare has been providing live-in childcare services to American families since 1989 and the au pairs are carefully selected from over 40 different countries. The company can be contacted at 800 428 7247 for those interested in learning more about hosting an au pair.
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