Also, you may have software that lets you share your screen with other callers, allowing you to show them a presentation or demonstrate how something works. For example, you may have video conferences in which callers use webcams for video interaction. Phones may be paired with other technology for more productive conference calls. Your employer may ask you to call in regularly, or to be part of conference calls where several callers dial into a single number and have a meeting by phone. Rather than a landline telephone tethered to a wall in your house, though, you'll probably want to use a mobile phone or "soft phone" software on your computer. Even after decades of innovation, the telephone is still one of the most common ways for a teleworker to keep in touch with the office. While a computer and Internet create the command center for your virtual workplace, you shouldn't be without a phone. If not, you can make these purchases and deduct the expenses on your income tax forms. Your employer might provide the computer for you and might even pay for your Internet connection, too. If the work itself also requires the computer and Internet, such as for researching or computer programming, it's essential that you have the hardware, software and network speed necessary to maximize your efficiency on the job. These components create the command center for your job: It's where you can send and receive data and keep in touch with your co-workers. The two most essential components in your virtual workplace are your computer and your Internet connection. Once you have your space picked out, it's time to set up the tools you need for the job. To make your teleworking a success, though, be sure to select a place where you'll be comfortable, productive and free from distractions throughout your workday. ![]() You could work in a coffee shop, on your porch or even in bed. Start by selecting the physical space itself. There are a few essential things you'll need to set up your virtual workplace. The technology to set up your virtual workplace is ready, but are you? This article is your orientation to the virtual workplace, including the tools you can use, your options for setting up an office and tips for adapting and maintaining productivity. Some other benefits for businesses include boosting productivity, fostering employee retention and "going green" by keeping more cars off the road. Businesses can cut costs by needing less "brick-and-mortar" office space, and they can find and hire uniquely qualified people who are unable or unwilling to relocate. ![]() Virtual workplaces aren't just for the benefit of the employee. Plus, your ability and willingness to telework instantly expands your job possibilities across the country and around the world without having to move. As a teleworker, you can set up your own virtual workplace and work productively on the day-to-day responsibilities of your job. Today, the more common and accurate term is telework. The first term for this, telecommute, was coined in 1973 by telecommuting innovator Jack Nilles. ![]() These scenarios demonstrate how technological advances have made it faster, easier, and cheaper to work remotely. Working away from your desk is easy: just pick up your laptop and mobile phone, head down to your local café, and connect to their WiFi Internet while you grab some lunch. You might even use instant messaging or chat rooms for ongoing discussions with your West Coast co-workers. Now how would you keep in touch? You'd probably use e-mail to check in, perhaps several times a day, and you'd access the Los Angeles office's computer network online so you can upload and download data instantly. ![]() If you have a computer at all, it only does a few data processing tasks and isn't very portable.įast-forward 30 years, same job. Working away from your desk is nearly impossible because it would require toting around heavy stacks of paper and missing any phone calls that come in. How would you keep in touch with the Los Angeles office? You'd probably use your telephone to check in every day or two, and you'd mail or fax papers back and forth across the country. Oh, and it just happens to be the year 1980. Suppose you live in New York and you're employed by a company from Los Angeles to track sales data in the Big Apple.
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