How to Telecommute With Writing & Editing Jobs

Telecommuting from a home office comes with a unique set of challenges.

For employees who desire to successfully telecommute with writing and editing jobs, it is critical to establish a best-practices system of working independently, with peers, consulting with clients and responding to your supervisor. Because of the volume of independent work that is required for writing and editing projects, a telecommuting arrangement can be an ideal set-up for a writer or editor.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet hook-up
• Telephone

Instructions

1. 

   Working in sparadic places throughout the house diminishes to structure needed to be productive.

   Create a distinct work environment with sitting area, phone and computer. Ensure that the space has proper internet hook-up and all of the supplies you would normally need in the office. To be efficient and productive with your time, you need a workspace that puts all the resources you need at your fingertips and encourages serious work while you're there.

2. Schedule your work week. By designating a specific start and end time, you set up the necessary structure to give work projects the priority they need to avoid falling victim to procrastination. Communicate that work schedule to clients so they know when and how to reach you.

3. 

   Video conferencing can help maintain the connection between telecommuters and office staff.

   Conduct a conference call or on-site visit will those involved in your project to get a definitive scope of the project, a time-line for development and completion and for all parties to clear up any questions or provide essential information. Make a note of who your "go-to" contact is should any questions or concerns arise.

4. 

   Both paper and electronic calendars can keep your telecommuting organized and on-schedule.

   Schedule your project backwards from the desired completion date so you can easy monitor your progress and give project-members updates whenever requested. Include all stages of the writing process for idea-generation, to rough draft and through to final copy editing. Don't assume everyone is up to speed. Schedule brief updates to let everyone know where you are in your project progress.

5. Stay on or ahead of your task schedule. Make yourself available and easily accessible to clients and co-workers during the work day. If you are taking a day off or have an urgent matter that takes you away from work, post a notification on your email and message machine so coworkers and clients always know what's going on.

6. 

   Telecommuters that stay in contact with clients and co-workers regularly increase their potential for success.

   Plan periodic meetings with clients and co-workers to stay "visible" with them and to be able to maintain a fluid working relationship. Try to email all work slightly ahead of the deadline to allow for last minute changes. Always follow up with clients to make sure they received the completed files and see if there are any questions.

Tips & Warnings

• Telecommuting can save both you and your company money on things like commuting cost, office space and supplies. However, if you are planning to take advantage of telecommuting-related tax incentives to use your at-home telecommuting space as a tax write off, consult a skilled attorney or accountant before proceeding. While you may not need an accountant in an ongoing capacity, understanding and following the specific state and federal tax guidelines that apply to your telecommuting situation will help you save the most money and avoid the possible financial pitfalls.

• The University of Florida IFAS Extension cautions that telecommuting is not for everyone. Being out of the office limits visibility with peers and supervisors, possibly reducing opportunities for advancement. In addition, productivity can wane because of the more casual and solitary environment. Taking steps to stay connected to the office work environment and to encourage productivity will help you prevent the career pitfalls associated with telecommuting.

References

• "University of Florida IFAS Extension"; * Telecommuting as a True Workplace Alternative; Kelli A. Green, Mayra López, Allen Wysocki, and Karl Kepne; 2009
• "CNN Money"; Save gas! Telecommute; Gerri Willis; 2006

Resources

• "Greenstein, Rogoff, Olsen and Co."; Tax Benefits Give Added Incentives to Telecommuting