Maung Maung Tun - The era of working from home

For many people , working from home (sometimes called teleworking) is a lucrative career and employment option. In a typical scenario, working from home frees you from the hassle of commuting to work so you can get your work done in peace and quiet without the distractions of being in an office. And it still leaves you with plenty of time to pursue your interests outside of work.

Can you work well at home?

Working from home is a great option for many people. But there are a lot of things you should consider before you rush out and set up your office. Answer the questions below, and then read on for advice on whether a home office is right for you.

Are you often late for work?

1. a) It usually happens regularly.
2. b) The work is already running late to meet a deadline set for completion.
3. c) Never stay up late.

Do you enjoy working as part of a team?

1. a) No, I don't like to depend on anyone.
2. b) Yes, but I also enjoy being free.
3. c) Yes, this means I can delegate work to other people.

How do you organize your daily tasks?

1. a) I write down a process and follow it.
2. b) I make a list of the most important tasks. I hope I remember the other tasks too.

E) When jobs come up, I take on those jobs.

What do you do when you are faced with multiple projects at the same time?

1. a) I start with the most important task first.
2. b) Choose the most interesting job and continue with it.

E) I start some tasks and then continue with the easiest ones.

How do you organize your workspace?

1. a) Very organized, I know where everything is. b) Fairly organized, I'm known for losing things. (e) Not organized at all, I don't think about the state of my desk.

How do you feel about your boss ?

1. a) I feel like he is sometimes intrusive.
2. b) We have a good working relationship.

E) I rely on her or his guidance.

How would you describe your relationship with your colleagues?

1. a) No big deal, I just take care of myself.
2. b) Good, hardworking and friendly.
3. c) That's great, I appreciate the camaraderie in the office.

I love it.

How do you respond to unexpected difficulties?

1. a) I am systematic. I try to tackle the problem from the source. b) I try to apply past problem-solving methods.

(E) I'm not a problem solver, so I'm scared.

How would you describe the process of delegation?

1. a) I find it boring, if a job comes to you, it's your responsibility to do it.
2. b) Your team's and your own development is an important process.
3. c) If you don't have time to do something, delegate.

Transfer is a tool, pass it on.

As you answered above.

a = 1, b = 2 and = 3

Then add up your scores. The next page contains a discussion of your scores.

Everyone who studies this book should read the next chapter first, because it is full of questions that are essential for how you should go about adapting your home to an office.

9-14 : You are well suited to working from home in many ways. You enjoy the freedom to work. You have no trouble motivating yourself. The only real problem is that you never seem to be able to concentrate. You need to think carefully about your business plans. Chapter 3 will help you set limits around your work hours.

It will help you to set some boundaries. You may also be inclined to isolate yourself from the public. It is important to stay in touch with important colleagues and contacts when working from home. See Chapter 5 for advice on this topic.

15-22 : You seem to have a balanced attitude towards your work life. So working from home should be a good fit. But don’t underestimate the upheaval of adjusting to a new routine. Lay out the groundwork carefully. Chapters 2 and 3 will help you work from your strengths. And when you’re alone, you may need some help prioritizing your tasks. See Chapter 4 for advice on when and how to do it.

23-27 : You thrive on working with others. So you should think very carefully about making a smooth transition from working from home. You will need to work hard to motivate yourself. You may also feel isolated. Chapters 3 and 5 will help you adjust. Chapter 6 will help you see how you can contribute to a team even when you are not in an office. Chapter 7 helps you deal with feelings of isolation.