Work From Home Companies
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Many people dream of finding work from home companies that allows the flexibility of setting personal hours and avoiding the dreaded morning and afternoon commutes. Certainly, with high gas prices, employees have traded highly desired positions for jobs closer to their residence to save money and free up time better spent with family. Those fortunate enough to work from home are able to utilize additional tax advantages on office equipment as well as a portion of mortgage and utilities. But the advantages don't stop with employees. Employers also have found that hiring individuals or allowing current employees to work some or all of their hours at home saves costs incurred for electricity, rent, and office supplies as well. Plus, some work from home companies have even reported that productivity has increased, turnover decreased, and they have greater access to qualified applicants who would not have otherwise applied for the position.
New technology has redefined the walls of the workplace. With the expansion of wireless broadband internet, the capability to do business from anywhere - airports, overseas, and even homes - has increased exponentially. It enables people to keep business flowing even weather may prevent them from traveling to a traditional office. People with disabilities who are able find employment from work from home companies can support themselves while staying in a safe and easier environment. Corporations offering this "homesourcing" to employees are increasing about 20% each year. Most of these jobs are not advertised, but given as an option when potential candidates are interviewing for the position or those who have worked in the office for enough time to prove trustworthiness with the opportunity.
Individuals thinking about applying for positions or requesting the option from an employer must make sure they are prepared. Home offices need to be equipped with the same machines and materials as a conventional office, a cost that most employers will not pick up. Employees must own or purchase an up-to-date computer system, software, printer, fax machine, copier, and any other basic office necessities. Internet accessibility separate from a phone line is a must. Since most work from home companies handle incoming or outgoing phone calls, employers require headsets with noise reduction microphones. "Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house." (Proverbs 24:27)
But people looking for jobs at work from home companies may not find it so easy. Very few are legitimate. Job seekers should be flexible and consider all options. Most positions are freelance or contract positions, not full time jobs with benefits. Individuals may have to combine several part-time positions to get the salary they desire. Corporations that do hire full-time commuter positions usually need someone to cover a specific territory or spend at least some time in a traditional office. Positions are generally with insurance companies or with call centers, but opportunities are expanding into sales, scheduling, telemarketing, and design. The best way to find these jobs are through networking. Ask around. Post resumes on the Internet. Use job search engines and read job search forums.
With the large number of work from home companies that are nothing more than scams, job seekers should be especially diligent. Most classic scams are in the fields of medical billing, envelop stuffing and assembly work that seem to be ideal for people who lack basic office skills. Unsolicited emails or companies promise instant wealth are usually not legitimate. Research the company, the position and others who work for the company thoroughly before applying. Get references, and only deal with companies that have a proven track record. Legitimate businesses will be completely upfront about the product being sold, supplies needed, and payment expectations in writing. Check to see if any complaints have been filed with the Better Business Bureau. Find out if the company hires regular staff or prefers to deal with freelancers and contractors. Some work from home companies will pay on a commission only basis while others agree to pay one lump sum for the entire completed project. Most of the time, compensation depends on what product or service is being sold. Finally, find out if the state has any legal requirements for home offices or requires licensing or a certification process. Individuals can contact the State Attorney's office, local zoning board or the nearest U.S. Department of Labor office to find out if any of these items are needed.
Making the decision to take a position with work from home companies is not an easy one to make. Working in a home office requires discipline. Employees have less supervision and accountability in completing daily tasks. They must be task-oriented self-starters who are willing to get the job done no matter how long it takes. This can mean working late hours or over the weekend to make sure that a project is completed in a timely manner. People who watch the clock, counting the minutes until quitting time, are probably not the best qualified to work offsite. Work time and family time are separated by a very hazy line. Time with children can quickly be interrupted by a phone call or task that requires a mental shift, and vice versa. Office hours can be interrupted by the needs of children who may not understand the difference between a home office and the rest of the house. Lastly, working from home does not mean a free ride. Employees must do the job with excellence and accuracy. That takes time, effort and concentration that may not always be available.
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