What makes a telecommuting arrangement successful?

Despite their recognition that they may need to be flexible in order to attract talent, many companies struggle with the concept and practice of telecommuting. A successful telecommuting arrangement requires effort on the part of the employer and the employee. Here are five tips for making your telecommuting arrangement a success:

1. Screen carefully. Effective candidates for telecommuting should be able to work autonomously and be self-motivated.

2. Communicate. Telecommuting employees should be able to stay connected with their colleagues even at a distance so they remain integral members of the team.

3. Encourage face time with others. It's easy to forget to include telecommuters on things learned through conversations, and it's easy for the telecommuter to forget to convey any information learned on his or her own. Companies need to budget for occasional plane trips, if necessary, to keep the connection alive.

4. Change your culture, if necessary. Some companies still equate face time with commitment and productivity. Telecommuters may need to keep thorough documentation on the work progress, and their managers may need training in how to manage and communicate with direct reports who work remotely. If your corporate climate doesn't support telecommuting in at least some form, that culture needs to change.

5. Think twice before changing flexible work arrangements. Telecommuting and other flexible work arrangements are among the most difficult types of benefits to rescind. Taking back the ability to work remotely may have negative consequences throughout your workforce and beyond.

Source: Salveson Stetson Group.