Can I Work from Home?

This, of course, is a much more common way to work these days given the advances in technology, and the increase in commuting time and expense. Its easy to see the benefits to working from home if you are given that option. You are often more flexible with the structure of your day, able to work earlier or later in the day as necessary, it saves money by eliminating car and transit bills, and it helps you to coordinate family commitments. It’s a win win, right?!

Well, its not for everyone. As I have experienced with our more senior job seekers, one must be cut out to work from home. You must be mentally disciplined so that you actually do your work, and put it away when its time, and you must be able to work happily without a lot of social interaction.

The career assessment I use for students, is the same we use for our corporate clients and it can help determine your suitability for working from home.. lets look at your Work Style and your Team Orientation. If it shows that you are highly extroverted, working from home may not be the best option for you. It may sound convenient, but don’t set yourself up for failure by confusing convenience with your personal requirements for a successful career.

In addition, as a newly christened member of the work force, do not EXPECT to be given this option right off the bat. Many employers will need to get to know you, trust you, and experience your work ethic first hand before you are given this opportunity. And, the employers who do allow their employees to work from home, will often have strict guidelines implemented, requiring you to check in online hourly, check in for video or teleconferences and be available to them as if you were in the office.

Working from home is considered a bonus, a benefit – but before you go looking for these types of jobs as your priority, its important to be realistic in your expectations and its important to understand yourself and your ability to work in this type of often isolating, environment.