Is Telecommuting An Option?

Today's technology has allowed for a number of advancements in the workplace. One of those that is becoming more popular is telecommuting. Since a lot of work now is done on computers, there's not a whole lot you can't do from home. And if you do need to access your work computer, there are programs, like LogMeIn, that allow you to do that from the comfort of your home.

Yes, saving money by removing your commute sounds great, but is it really the right choice for job seekers?

The answer to that question really depends on who you are. Speaking during the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) 49th International Conference on Fundraising, Jill Dotts of the American Heart Association pointed out that there are certain employees who are good matches for telecommuting. Those employees fall into the following types:

• Top performers.
• Results focused.
• Strong communicators.
• Disciplined.
• Self directed, self driven.
• Entrepreneurial.
• Proficient in high technology.
• Administration proficient.
• Possessing a sense of urgency.

If most of those terms describe your personality, you should consider applying to jobs that offer telecommuting as an option. I personally think there is something to be said for working in an office with other people rather than staying at home all the time, but it is an option if you are having a tough time finding traditional nonprofit jobs.