A "WORK FROM HOME" blog-the Virtual Office
Virtual Job Fair Work at home opportunities
Ever since the introduction of employees working from home or “telecommuting”, due to rising costs of fuel and the need for more flexible schedules, more employees elect to work as telecommuters and there have been some concerns as to whether or not it is in the best interest of the organization for both productivity and manageability. Managing telecommuters, so called “remote employees” requires a different style of management. No longer a micromanager, but a manager who has more technical capabilities and a manager who builds a level of trust with the employee who are working from home. CNN.com
Basic Trust of Telecommuters
Trusting whether or not an employee will get the work done if they are not working in the office is a big concern. Also, some people complain that the telecommuters are not included in the office politics and they miss face-to-face contact. Other managers clearly state that the employees who work on site communicate with them by email on a daily basis and they find that they speak to the telecommuters on a more regular basis by phone and therefore, it is not face to face contact that suffers. CNN.com
Many articles and journals, including one published in the Journal of Applied Psychology illustrates that telecommuters are less stressed and are more appreciative of the benefits they receive from working at home. They are more likely to be additionally productive because their surroundings are conducive with their personalities. There is also less stress on work at home employees because they do not have constantly struggle with the many perils of time constraints. It is easier for a person who telecommutes to work on projects and tasks that needs to be done at any time that they are able to schedule it, which is not necessarily from 8am-5pm.
Out with the Old in with the New Concepts
Our world is changing. We no longer have to be baby sat on a day-to-day basis at work. With technology and the way it has grown, myself and many others question, why not use it? Suggestions of companies setting up remote offices, investing in “meeting technologies (remote offices),” and also the good old notion that employees should be measured on performance and not face time. Time and time again I have worked in some companies, and I know I am not alone when I talk about this, in which I have observed employees who spend nearly 2 hours a day working on work. The employees who fly under the radar at work and are quiet and do not cause trouble. Why wouldn’t a manager like them? Yes, but what about the work getting done? What about production? They complete menial tasks, but they take up space and electric kilowatts and employee benefits so I think it is unfair to say that “every” employee who works in the office necessarily produces more work then an employee who telecommutes. The Telecommuting Imperative
Telecommuting is a great option
Using social network sites to promote your online business or professional profile is a smart way for you to build business relationships and introduce yourself in online communities. When embarking on a new business or working as a freelance professional from home, it is a great way to let others know your skills, experiences and professional abilities and achievements. It is also a tool to build professional references.
Social Networking Sites LinkedIn
Home office deductions are a hot and questionable topic. Research and accurate record keeping are imperative aspects to be considered. At this time, due to the growing number of individuals who are working from home and telecommuting, it is becoming the “norm.” If considering taking home office deductions pay close attention to requirements and take advice from professionals. CNN.com
Two Basic Requirements
Basic rules when taking home office deductions are; 1st requirement, the location must be used regularly and exclusively for conducting business. The 2nd requirement is the home is used as the principle place of business. The space being used for business cannot be used for personal reasons or any other, just exclusively use for business. If the computer, in the office area that is being used for administrative services, is also used for paying personal bills online from that computer or the office area is being used for relaxation or any other activity besides business, it does not qualify under the two requirements for being accepted use of the area and being able to take deductions for having an office in the home. IRS-Home Office Deductions Basic Requirements
Own or Rent
Home office deductions can be taken whether or not you own or rent. If you use a room or a portion of a room, the calculation is to figure out what percentage of square feet the portion being used is in relation to the entire square footage of the house or apartment. If you own a home, a percentage of either mortgage interest or a portion of depreciation; (if the home is older than 39 years), can be taken as a deduction.
There is a section on the IRS website that details the requirements and forms that should be submitted. Home office deduction calculators Home Office Deduction Calc are very helpful in figuring out what you will qualify for. IRS-Home Office Deductions
Steps to take in order to keep records and information organized
1.) Save all receipts 2.) Keep accurate and timely records 3.) Pictures of the business space in your tax records 4.) Record all appointments Turbo Tax
5.) Seek a tax professional’s help to file an accurate and valid tax return. Find an Enrolled Agent
