Teleworking opens a new door of opportunity that benefits each level of the employment chain - the individual teleworker, the employing company and the community in which all of this takes place. Each level enjoys various benefits. Right now, I would like to bring your attention to the financial benefits that teleworking provides the individual. That would be you and me.

Teleworking provides employees who must work either at home or part time a way of earning significant income. In the past, at-home jobs and part-time jobs tended to be low paying jobs that penalized the worker because of the constraints imposed by her time and geographic requirements. Now, through teleworking, a woman can perform different levels of jobs based on her ability and training rather than whatever situation might exist in her personal life. In addition to the increased opportunity, she is gaining experience that will enhance her resume. It is the difference between growing and marking time.

The ability to focus on work projects without the distractions of logistics, scheduling issues, commute time and personal arrangements allows you to perform at a higher level than you might in a traditional work environment. Your improved performance should result in positive recognition and, ultimately, increased income.

It is hard to put any advantage on the same level as increasing income and career expectations. However, those things are long term gains. There are several other financial benefits to the individual who teleworks.

õ Reduced work attire requirements õ No lunches out õ Savings of fast food or dinners out due to work demands õ Commute costs, including vehicle expense, gasoline and/or fare, and insurance costs õ Residence location can result in savings because it is not dependant on work location õ Reduced loss of income due to illness, absenteeism, sick leave, and medical expenses

Other financial benefits of teleworking to the individual are less tangible but do result in savings to oneÌs personal budget

• Reduced taxes to maintain roads as a result of decreased use.

• Reduced insurance costs as a result of improved condition of pollution-related health problems
• Free time permits the individual to take care of personal things in a less costly manner

• Reduced stress contributes to stronger emotional and physical well-being

Teleworking is important and everything that can be done to make it a successful effort should be done. Teleworking reduces traffic and pollution caused by vehicles carrying employers to a distant work location. This benefits everyone, including each individual teleworker. One of the elements of teleworking is that it improves the quality of life for the individuals who participate. The time freed for the individual teleworker can be directed to family and community efforts. Increased employee satisfaction is an immediate benefit in terms of productivity and job proficiency. Teleworking is good for the employee, her employer and the community in which they all reside. The things listed in this paragraph cannot have a dollar amount attached to them but are priceless to the individual and her family.