D.C Telework Helps Employers Think Outside of the Cubicle

December 23rd, 2010

For many people, the days of working a traditional 9 to 5 job are long gone, and DC Telework is just one of the many ways employers are trying to help workers balance the demands of long work days, a busy lifestyle, and taking care of the family. For years, the idea of the traditional office environment has been a stagnant and well-understood one: productivity means everyone being in one place, at the same time, with few distractions. While this has worked well for decades, as times change and technology opens new horizons for entrepreneurs and corporate magnates alike, the ways of doing business are shifting to a more global, more around-the-clock model.

Telework offers advantages in this respect, and D.C., being one of the most globally-oriented business environments in the United States, is at the forefront of this shift in momentum.

D.C. telework is successful because it helps gives employees the flexibility a traditional office environment doesn’t offer, resulting in workers that are better able to balance the priorities of a full and busy life. Teleworkers tend to take fewer vacation days, are less likely to need to ask for leave, or to arrive at the office late and go home early in order to attend to other equally important issues.

Workers are not only more productive, they tend to be more satisfied in both their home and work lives. Cutting out the hassles that are presented by long commutes, unexpected traffic jams, babysitters that cancel at the last moment, and bad weather means employees actually spend more time at work, and less time trying to get to and from work.

Another major advantage of telework is that it allows your employees the ability to receive support and training, to conduct business, and to hold meetings in virtual environments, fostering creativity and collaboration that has the potential to span the globe. The dull, repetitive staff meetings employees have grown used to take on a new, more interactive life of their own, and there are more tools and advisors available, leaving managers and employers less overwhelmed. When phone calls to the corporate office becomes a face-to-face chat, the learning curve is smaller and more efficient, and employee morale receives a boost.

With so many reasons to embrace D.C. telework, why not consider stepping out of the cubicle? It may be the best choice your business will ever make, and Metro Offices will help you get there with affordable hosting plans, administrative support, and all the tools you need to take your business model to the next level.

Learn more about how DC telework solutions can benefit your business at www.metroffice.com.

Telework Gives Boost to DC Start-Up Businesses

December 20th, 2010

If you have a DC start-up business, you understand how challenging it is to compete with the major players in your industry. To increase your chances for success, why not arm yourself with a fool-proof plan to keep productivity high and business costs low with DC Telework Solutions? Deciding to build your start-up business with a telework program is a way to save money and ensure you receive the services and support you need to get started on the right foot.

Is it possible to start a new business without purchasing or leasing an office or hiring staff members? Thanks to telework, these things are no longer essential components of a successful business. Whether you have a home-based business or company of any size, Telework Solutions can help you to become competitive in your industry by providing you with cutting-edge technology and physical workplaces throughout the DC Metro Area.

Telework Helps You to Measure Up to the Competition

Even your new business has the potential to offer clients the same level of services that a well-established company can offer. Telework makes it possible. Start-up businesses have a unique opportunity to jump in an industry one step ahead of the competition if they leverage the telework technology available to them.

No office, no problem. Not having a traditional office can actually be a benefit in today’s economic environment. Rather than having to pay for real estate or costly lease fees, companies taking advantage of Telework Solutions have access to on-demand Washington DC meeting spaces and training rooms, Executive Offices, virtual office space and virtual clubs.

While most work tasks can be handled remotely through telework, there are times when a physical workplace is necessary. With these on-demand workspaces available, new business owners have everything they need to conduct important client meetings and team trainings without the hassle and high cost of a traditional office.

Because Telework Solutions provide customized packages, new business owners can choose the package that best meets their workspace and administrative assistance needs. Whether the need is a few hours a week, or 24-7 hour access to meeting rooms and services, start-up business owners can reserve the office, room, club or lounge easily online.

Telework makes it easier and more affordable than ever to start a business in Washington DC, Northern Virginia and Maryland. For more information on start-up business, Telework, Executive Office Spaces and other cost-effective business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

When Should Your Business Move from a Traditional Office to a Washington Virtual Office?

December 13th, 2010

With the economy still recovering slowly, business owners are looking for every possible way to trim their budgets. One option that is increasing in popularity is transitioning from a traditional office to a Washington Virtual Office, which offers the same features and conveniences at a lower rate.

Before making the move, however, there are a few questions that you should ask yourself:

  • Is your product something that customers or clients need to visit the office to view or receive? For example, if your business involves selling robots, and your showroom is used for conducting demonstrations for potential clients, you might be better served in keeping your traditional office location or utilizing affordable on-demand DC Office Space.
  • If, however, your company is involved in consulting or a similar business, where most of the service is provided by telephone or online communications, a Washington Virtual Office will enable you to conduct business successfully, while at the same time reducing your expenses.
  • What are some of the issues and concerns that your staff or executives are currently experiencing? Would relocation the office resolve these issues and increase productivity and boost morale?
  • How would the transition from traditional office space to virtual office affect your business, overall? Would the addition of an office located in the capitol attract potential clients and customers, or is the appeal of your business based on its small-town, home-like feel?

Metro Office’s Washington Virtual Offices are located in three key areas around the city, each adjacent to a specific section of business: government offices and the White House, the International community and the heart of the business corridors. Each office location gives businesses and individuals a range of customizable office options, complete with all the essential technology for conducting and increasing your business.

For more information on Washington Virtual Offices, DC Meeting Rooms, Telework, Executive Office Spaces, FlexDesk and other cost-effective business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

Telework Saves Productivity During the Holidays

December 10th, 2010

Sometimes it seems like the business world goes on hiatus during the holidays, but I’ve found one way to save productivity is by incorporating DC telework. Let’s face it, during this time of year, employees are either taking vacation days, or calling in “sick,” or daydreaming about sugarplum fairies while they sit in their cubicles. Actual productive work is NOT happening (at least not in most cases). Throw in the office holiday party and a Secret Santa gift exchange, and you blow any hope for accomplishing business tasks during the month.

Isn’t there a better way to let the employees have a little fun for the holidays while keeping productivity high?

Consider this:

  • Employees who have the opportunity to telework have a better work-life balance. Having the tools and support to work remotely allows them to work from home, attend their child’s school winter party at 2, hop back online, and still have a full work-day. No lengthy commute or workplace interruptions necessary.
  • What is going to make an employee feel more valued: the freedom & flexibility of telework….or some fruit cake and cold cheese dip during the office holiday party? Why not nix the holiday parties and gift exchanges this year, save money, and gift your employees with a week of telework? It’s a win-win situation.

Studies have shown that successful telework programs increase productivity and employee satisfaction. Whether you choose to implement telework for the holidays or as part of your business operations plan for 2011, be sure to obtain the support services necessary to set up your employees and business for success.

Learn more about how DC telework solutions can benefit your business at www.metroffice.com.

How Employers Can Promote and Support Productive DC Telework Efforts

December 3rd, 2010

As more and more federal agencies and DC government contractors strive to meet the federal administration’s call to telework, many managers and employers are left wondering exactly how they can implement telework programs effectively. Setting up a telework program for success takes much more than just giving workers the permission to do their jobs remotely. In order to keep productivity high, accountability must be put in place and, even more importantly, workers must have access to the technology and tools necessary to do their jobs.

It’s no secret that there are numerous benefits to teleworking. From saving big money on gas for daily commutes and cutting back on greenhouse gas emission to businesses being able to reduce office space or even go office-less, the well-implemented telework program can be a win-win for employees and businesses alike.

Employers need to keep these potential benefits in the forefront of managers’ minds, especially those who tend to be more skeptical and resistant to change. However, an even more important piece to the puzzle is arming these managers and employees with the right set of tools, namely, the latest telework technology and professional workspaces when necessary.

Through tools like Unified Communications, VoIP, Follow-me/Find Me phone technology, and professional telephone answering services, teleworkers can continue business as usual without skipping a beat regardless of where they are working.

Of course, there will be times when a physical workspace or meeting room is necessary, so employers can connect managers and teleworkers with fully-equipped, professional virtual office space, executive offices and meeting rooms. With on-demand access to these facilities, there is no reason why a teleworker won’t be able to meet and surpass business tasks and goals.

It’s all about setting up managers and employees for success, and there are DC Telework Solutions packages available to make initiating and implementing a productive, effective telework program easy.

For more information on DC government contractors, DC Meeting Rooms, Telework, Executive Office Spaces, FlexDesk and other cost-effective business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

Telework Enhancement Act: Turning the Focus on Work Instead of the Workplace

November 19th, 2010

With the passing of the Telework Enhancement Act on Thursday, it looks like DC Metro Area traffic will soon become less congested while more workers will be able to focus on work instead of the workplace. The Act passed in the House 254 to 152 and is currently on its way to President Obama where it will surely receive his signature.

This is good news on many levels and confirms what we have known for years—telework works and has huge and positive implications not only for federal agency employees and DC government contractors but also for the entire DC Metro Area.

Telework will alleviate traffic congestion, which has been a growing problem recently, and it also contributes to the important Green moment–to conserve gas, energy and decrease greenhouse emissions.

What’s more, the Telework Enhancement Act paves the way for DC to become a model to other parts of the country for streamlined and efficient business operations. Instead of dealing with a variety of workplace and commute issues, workers can focus on their jobs. Having more freedom and flexibility means they will be able to achieve a better work-life balance and agencies will have happier, healthier employees who are better able to accomplish work tasks.

What Will Change in the World of Telework?

The Telework Enhancement act requires federal agencies to create policies enabling employees to telework unless their positions are unable to do so (because the nature of their jobs requires on-site work).  The measure also requires federal agencies to incorporate telework as part of a business continuity or contingency plan in times where circumstances or weather or another event prevent traditional office work from continuing.

Estimates from the General Services Administration project that if federal workers telecommute just one day each week, these agencies could increase productivity by more than $2.3 billion each year. Add this figure to the money that could be saved on office space, supplies and energy usage, and business profitability is very promising.

If you considering how your business might benefit from DC Telework Solutions, now is a great time to learn more. There are affordable telework packages available to fit your business budget.

Staying in Compliance with DC Telework Requirements

November 9th, 2010

Are you all set to implement a DC telework solution in your office? Before you get started and run into a snag, use this checklist to make sure you are ready and in compliance with standards for federal agencies as outlined in §359 of Public Law 106-346.

Do You Have a Telework Coordinator?

Your agency must designated a dedicated telework coordinator who functions as the main point of contact for your employees.

Do You Have a Written Policy and Procedures Manual?

This is a key requirement of the telework statute. Managers need to know what’s in the manual so they can advise their employees and educate them about information security requirements. The manual should also outline the eligibility requirements for employees who wish to telework instead of approving each request one by one, based on subjective criteria. Devising and implementing a written strategy is a more proactive way to utilize teleworking in your agency. Include an agreement that clearly outlines expectations on both sides (manager and employee), such as when the teleworker will be available, who will provide technical assistance, and where completed work will be uploaded.

Do You Have a Training Program in Place?

DC telework coordinators, managers, and employees all need proper training to ensure that transmitted data stays secure.

What About Telework Equipment?

I recommend that you provide the equipment your teleworking employees are going to use. That way you can ensure it conforms to your safety standards. One thing you might want to consider is using Washington virtual office space to give offsite employees a place where they can meet with clients or co-workers and have access to a variety of resources they don’t have at home. Virtual office space allows teleworkers to use standard office equipment as needed without having to pay for duplicate equipment and its maintenance. This is also an excellent way to ensure that the latest technology is being used to create a safe environment for data transmittal.

Learn more about how your business can implement a telework program utilizing DC Telework Solutions by visiting Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com

Your Business Super Hero: How DC Telework Can Save the Day

November 5th, 2010

DC Telework might make a great super hero name. After all, telework has the capability to save productivity as well as the bottom line, even when inclement weather, natural disaster or another crisis strikes the DC Metro Area.

We experienced this last winter when we had the snow dump of astronomical proportions. Which companies stayed productive while other businesses—even federal agencies and DC government contractors—were snowed-in and unable to work? Companies with telework programs!

DC Telework—the no-fail business continuity plan

Telework solutions provide the ultimate business continuity plan. Whether the crisis is something minor that will pass in a few days such as a company power outage, or something major like a global pandemic, telework can keep your employees on-task. Your business will not have to stop, even if the rest of the business world is at a stand-still.

When you can keep going during a time when others must cease productions, you send a message to clients and to your industry that you are a resourceful leader who takes the business seriously. A snow day may apply to elementary schools, but NOT to the business world, especially not to your business.

DC Telework Solutions are Essential

With telework support, your employees can work from the comfort of their own homes while having access to everything they require to accomplish their job duties. Consider these features of DC Telework Solutions:

  • Unified Communications including VOIP with local number
  • Follow-me/ Find Me phone technology
  • Unlimited domestic long distance
  • Voicemail to e-mail
  • Telephone answering
  • Call screening
  • Membership to DC office space, DC meeting rooms and virtual clubs and lounges

Every business needs a super hero—something to save the day when staying on task seems impossible. Whether the evil villain is congested traffic, snow, health crises or another problem, your business can remain productive and focused on providing the best products and services to your customers with DC telework solutions.

How DC Telework and Washington Virtual Office Go Hand-in-Hand

October 22nd, 2010

There is really no stopping DC telework now, especially since both the House and Senate have passed the Telework Improvements Act of 2010 (H.R. 1722). Under this act, federal agencies have 180 days to determine employee eligibility to telework and also during that same time frame must establish policies for these telework-eligible employees. From that point, the employees will enter into a written agreement with the federal agency.

With the increasing numbers of teleworkers, there is a new need for Washington virtual offices and DC meeting rooms to provide the necessary support to employees working outside of a traditional office environment, at least part of the time. While DC telework solutions are available to make teleworking productive and efficient whether the employees are working from home or a local coffee shop with wireless Internet, there may sometimes still be a need for a physical workspace.

On-demand Washington virtual offices provide an ideal environment for teleworkers with fully-equipped, professional workspace. From phone answering service and administrative support to teleconference capabilities and access to DC meeting rooms, all bases are covered to help telework employees and dc government contractors accomplish work tasks and maximize productivity.

DC meeting rooms, training rooms and executive offices provide a practical way for business owners and employees to work productively when away from the office. There are over 34 physical workplaces available throughout the DC Metro area, including Maryland and Northern Virginia, allowing companies and agencies in any part of the Metro to put their best face forward for important business tasks and meetings.

If you are establishing a new telework program or expanding a current one, having the right support in place makes the transition as smooth as possible. Washington virtual offices comes with trained administrative support as well as tech support to ensure managers and employees have everything they need and that everything is operating optimally.

How might a Washington virtual office benefit your agency or business?

For more information about Washington Virtual Offices, DC  Telework, DC Meeting Rooms, and other cost-effective business solutions visit Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

DC Telework: The Solutions for Managing in a Remote Environment

October 15th, 2010

For some businesses and federal agencies trying to make telework work, it is a completely new journey. Most have policies and procedures designed for a traditional worker in a traditional office environment, and the idea of releasing an employee to work without in-person supervision is unsettling.

Why in the face of studies proving telework’s effectiveness and increases in productivity are managers still afraid of telework? Because they haven’t yet been able to let go of the idea that performance is measured by face time. The idea is that if the employee is in the office desk, in the cubicle, then, the employee must be doing his or her job.

However, anyone who works in an office environment knows that many employees sit at their desks in their cubicles and are still unproductive. Being IN the office, does not guarantee productivity. Likewise, working remotely does not guarantee lack of productivity.

In fact, many teleworkers are finding that they are able to ramp up productivity when the typical office distractions are eliminated. No break-room chit-chat or disruptions from noisy co-workers. Furthermore, employees who have the opportunity to work remotely can work during their peak performance periods and develop a healthier work-life balance.

These things make for a better, more loyal employee. Of course, this freedom to telework comes with a need for clarified expectations for performance, identifying measurable results. It also calls for the right telework solutions and support to keep the employee productive and on-task, even though he or she is away from the office.

The good news is there are DC telework solutions specially designed to meet these unique needs and provide the support necessary to develop healthy telework programs for businesses, federal agencies and DC government contractors.

Learn more about how your business can implement a telework program utilizing DC Telework Solutions by visiting Metro Offices online at www.metroffice.com.

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