It is important to put your agreement in writing to avoid any problems in the future. Here are some points that should be included in the written agreement:

• Where the work will be done.
• The number of hours or amount of work to be done each day.
• What equipment will be used.
• Who will pay for telephone cost and will a separate line will be installed.
• How many times each day should the employee contact the office.

Tips To Help You Telecommute Successfully

• Don’t work too much. Your office is so accessible that it can be tempting to work during your family time. When you finish for the day, close the door and get on with your life.
• Make a schedule and stick to it. Try to work the same number of hours you would at the office. Make a schedule so that you work, eat, and spend time with your kids at the same time each day. This will help your family get into a routine and accept your hours.
• Break up your work day. Take breaks, make telephone calls, spend some time with your kids. It will help you avoid feeling isolated.
• Use a separate business line and voice mail. When the work day is over, or you are on a break, you won’t have to worry about having your phone answered in a professional manner. You can also turn off the bell on the phone after hours and check your messages in the morning.
• Stay in the loop. Try to schedule at least one telephone call each day with your office and share the day-to-day details of your work day. Keep up with office happenings, e-mail associates, remember their birthdays and try to visit the office a few times each month.
• Just say no - to overwork and to housework during your business hours.

Tools to help