Teleworking is a growing trend in today’s work environment. One good thing that employers have realized during this pandemic is that most employees can easily plug-in and work from anywhere. To capitalize on potentially reduced office and carbon footprint, a few key items need to be communicated to have a successful remote work strategy. The most pivotal piece is a written telework policy.  

A written work from home policy clearly outlines the expectations, responsibilities, and eligibility of such arrangements for both employees and employers. A well-written policy also informs the human resources team how to handle those situations when expectations are not met. 

Key Elements of a Work From Home Policy

1. Policy and Purpose

Clearly outline the intent of your work from home policy and the goal of providing.  

2. Eligibility

Your policy should clearly state what positions are eligible to telework and how and when eligible employees should submit requests to telework. It should also state “when” employees can work from home whether it be on certain occasions i.e. during emergencies or inclement weather, full time, or a certain number of days per week. 

3. Availability

Availability expectations should be clearly outlined in your policy.  Whether employees are allowed to make their schedule or work during traditional working hours should be explicitly stated in your policy. It should also include when employees are required to be available i.e. for meetings or training.

4. Productivity Measures

The policy should specify how teleworkers’ productivity will be measured. 

5. Equipment 

Your policy should state whether equipment and tech support will be offered and should also outline the requirements for employees when they encounter technical difficulties. Companies that provide a stipend for their employees to purchase equipment should provide outlines for what is approved and what is not. Cubicly provides a simple process for employers who wish to show their staff only approved equipment. Read More

To ensure you are following local, state, and federal laws, Cubicly recommends speaking to a legal professional before rolling out any new telework policy. This space is rapidly changing and we want you to be up to date with the Future of Work. For questions around practical remote work policies, legal opinions, or operational next steps, contact Cubicly today. 

~ Alkeyvia Walker, Legal Contributor

Note: You do not need permission to use this information provided you cite Cubicly as the source. A link would be appreciated and we will reciprocate by making sure our social network sees your work.