Research revealed today by Skillfair has unveiled that working from home is still very much in vogue, with the Internet now perceived as the chief enabler of successful home working. In fact, over 96% of respondents were happy with their communications tools at home - showing that perhaps high-speed connectivity isn’t a big issue to the professional home worker as suggested so often.
The web-based survey asked respondents several questions concerning home working and attracted over two hundred consultants who revealed some interesting information. The respondents were members of Skillfair, the online meeting place for consultants and clients, and represented many specialisms ranging through PR, graphic design, coaching, training and IT.
The survey revealed the following:
* Communications - 96% were happy or very happy with their communications tools - the Internet really has come of age!
* Security - a resounding 90% were happy - again down no doubt to the reliability of the Internet
* Physical environment - not surprisingly 89% were happy
* Work / home balance - 84% happy
However, interestingly there were some results not expected:
* 32% of people complained that distractions in the home had a detrimental effect on their working practises
* 51% of people complained that working from home meant they worked harder and longer!
* 25% complained of a lack of IT Support - however this was a better rating than those who work in offices!
Gill Hunt, managing director and founder of Skillfair, commented: Working from home seems to still benefit both workers who do work from home and employers. Workers are comfortable in their home environment, work hard (and often much harder) and in the majority of cases feel they are more productive. Employers should encourage more home working to maximise the potential of their employees and contract staff.
Survey brings out the highs and lows of working from home
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