TELECOMMUTING AND EMPLOYEE EFFECTIVENESS: CAREER AND MANAGERIAL ISSUES

Abstract

Telecommuting takes the concept of decentralization to its furthest degree. Managerial careers change, in that facilitation and the ability to service employees become the essential skills. Results, rather than visible inputs and “time‐in”, become important. Similarly, employees can develop alternate, less stressful, more productive lifestyles, as they are freed from constant interruptions. In order to make the telecommuting process work, however, the organizations must install proper policies and procedures, while providing proper training to managers, telecommuters and non‐telecommuters. Also, management must insist that some time is spent in the office and that communication remains open.