Working from home

If the term 'home working' conjures up visions of filling envelopes for a paltry wage, think again. A wide range of jobs can lend themselves to being carried out from home, whether on a temporary or permanent basis.

Many of the varied roles in the IT and Internet sectors, such as design, programming and development are ideal for home working, as they can be carried remotely, and the same is true of many computer-based jobs. Other roles suited to home working include design, accountancy and auditing, consulting, journalism, typing - the list is extensive and varied.

For most, it means making use of technology so that your home is as well-equipped as your office. PCs, faxes and laptops all help to spend a few hours or days away from the office, while still putting in a full week's work.

Where can I find an employer offering flexible and home working options?
Some forward-thinking companies have realised that much of their work can be done remotely and advertise flexible working options to prospective recruits. Companies such as IBM and Accenture not only encourage home working, they also supply the equipment needed for it. But it is not just technology companies that make the most of flexible working. BMW, Shell, Royal Bank of Scotland, Nationwide Building Society and Marks & Spencer have also offered the option.

How to set up a home office
You can set up your home office from scratch for well under £1,000. If you rely on email and use of the Internet you will need a PC with a modem. You may also consider a broadband line, which is now pretty much standard for connecting to the Internet. Other essential items are a fax machine, a printer and a mobile phone. If your company is unwilling to foot the bill, don't write off the concept of working from home completely. Consider the balance - for example, would a reduction in your commuting costs help to pay for the equipment? Think about the equipment you need:

• PC - from £500 up to £2,000. The cost depends on how powerful a PC you need for your work
• Broadband is now readily available and affordable, with a number of established providers offering services from around £20 a month.
• Fax machine - from £100.
• Printer - less than £100 for a basic model.

The drawbacks:

• Working from home can be a very isolating experience for some people. Ask yourself if you are the type of person who thrives in a buzzy working environment with lots of noise and chatter around you. If so, home working may not be ideal for you.
• Spending time away from the office can distance you from day-to-day activities, so it is vital to keep in touch. Think of all those snippets of information you pick up during a week at work, from useful gossip about your clients and rivals to tip-offs about potential business leads.
• If possible, avoid a job where you spend all your time at home - try and get into your workplace for one or two days a week. It might be appropriate to arrange catch-up meetings with your boss or peers, just to make sure that you are kept in the loop. Also try to attend any major company events whether they are social or formal. As well as keeping up to date, you'll remind everyone you're still part of the team.

Where can I find more information?
Stay in touch with fellow home-based workers, visit the Home Business Alliance for help, advice and networking opportunities.

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