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People want flexibility. Companies want to keep good people. So how do you marry the two? Allow good, responsible team members to work from home 2-3 days a week or more. This saves employees commuting time, gives good employees a benefit that costs the company next to nothing and provides a much needed break from the daily routine. According to the Census Bureau 13.4 million people work at home at least 1 day per week. That’s about 10% of the work force. In order to prepare for this transition you have to have a proper place to work.

Why the kitchen table is not the best place to “office”

You say to yourself, “No problem, I’m the only one home during the day, I’ll just set up my computer on the kitchen table!” Most kitchen tables are 28” high. The average desk is 30.5” high. That may not seem like much difference but sitting at that table all day long 2-3 days a week can make a big difference when it comes to your comfort level. This will be more important if your work is on a computer. Having the proper height table and a comfortable desk chair is important to your posture, your ability to work and not develop neck and shoulder stiffness at the end of the day, which can lead to headaches.

Create your own office space

Look around your home. Is there a small space in your kitchen, living room or family room that you could convert into a space to efficiently work? Do you have a nook in a corner of the room, preferably with some natural light, for you to set up office in?

If working from home is going to be a long term situation, consider bringing in a professional to remodel a small space or add a working desk. A small unused alcove could be the perfect home office space for you. Check with your accountant, a portion of the remodel could possibly be a tax wrote off for you! Add a built-in desk and closed storage or open shelving above the desk. Don’t forget lighting. If you don’t have sufficient natural light, you’ll want to make sure you have excellent task lighting. Plan a good working space and you’ll be organized and efficient and comfortable- working in your jeans or PJ's!

Working from home a few days a week can be a benefit (to those who are not easily distracted) Take advantage of the privilege and make sure that you have an effective place to work and get the job done. Consult with Chad Pfeffer at Artisan Construction. He can take the space you want to use and execute the planning and remodel of your new telecommuting office space.  Everyone wins when a good employee is happy and telecommuting is a great way to reward yourself and keep a job you love!