These companies acknowledge that implementing a sustainable telecommuting program is requires an intense effort. But the benefits can be huge. One major company got better results from telecommuting than all of its other 45 recruiting and retention programs combined. Most telecommuting situations involve some time in the office for meetings, training, or work on project teams. So, the space needs in the office shift more toward additional conference and training rooms, but there is still the need for some office space.
Telecommuting is a big change for employees too.
As much as they desire to telecommute, they do not want to be left alone to set up an office environment. Trina Hoefling, a nationally recognized expert in telecommuting training, indicates that telecommuters want shared responsibility for the success of a clearly developed program. Telecommuters will work to help telecommuting succeed, but only with an attractive goal that is clear and well communicated, moderate risk, partial or shared responsibility, and good feedback about their performance as telecommuters and employees. 10 Telecommuters need to understand that the company telecommuting program is a legitimate workplace alternative and that they will be treated with equity to their office counterparts. Telecommuters need help with setting up and equipping their home offices.