When you can work virtually, you have a wide range of possibilities and benefits. For example, you can work while you're traveling or even work for a company in one state but live somewhere else. However, for some people, there are some downsides.
Virtual work may not be for everyone, and while it sounds awesome in theory, many people struggle with many issues. If you are thinking of whether or not you want to work virtually, consider some of these advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages
Many people choose to work remotely because they are attracted to some of its unique advantages. Some of the benefits of working remotely, whether it's for yourself or someone else, include the following.
You Save Money
If you work mostly from home, then you will save money on commuter costs. You may even be able to eliminate a vehicle from your household. In some cases, you can also save money on child care, lunches out, and clothing.
You Can Be Home for Kids or Pets
If you're someone who has young children or certain types of pets, working at home can allow you to be there for them. This is important if your pet is demanding or you want to make sure you will be there as your child grows up.
You Are Likely to Be More Productive
Long commutes and taxing co-workers can be a drain on your productivity. If you are self-driven and work well independently, you may find that working virtually in a calm, familiar place may work wonders for your productivity and motivation.
You Save Time
You can go straight from your bedroom or breakfast nook right to your job and start working immediately. There is no commute time, so you can sleep in later, have time to take the kids to school, or finish your breakfast before you start your workday.
If you're a self-driven, well-organized person, remote work can be a good thing for you and may even make you a better worker.
Disadvantages
Working at home isn't perfect, and many people who do this full-time may soon find out some of these disadvantages.
Less Social Interaction
For many people, the office is often their only source of socialization. You may find the lack of adult conversation when working virtually a little disconcerting. Plus, if you're someone who needs other people to motivate you during the workday, then virtual work may not be your thing.
Less Access to Company Files
This can be a problem if you work for a company where you regularly need to access client records or base your work off of company files. It can be both a time and money killer driving back and forth from your company's headquarters to return and obtain documents.
More Distractions
Young children can interrupt business phone calls, and you may also get interruptions from people outside the home. Some people don't consider working virtually to be really working and may assume that you have time to spend with them or do errands.
Less Meeting Space
Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to meet with important clients whom you need to impress. You might not feel comfortable letting them into your home or meeting them in a crowded coffee shop.
Fortunately, even if you work remotely, you have more ways to enhance the positives and reduce or eliminate the negatives. Executive Suites, LLC, offers a wide range of professional options for the virtual worker as well as those starting up a new business.
We have virtual office services, conference rooms, and various fully-furnished office suites to give you a custom business solutions for your virtual working needs. Visit or call our office to see what we have to offer.