1. Plan a pilot scheme; consider offering selected employees the option of teleworking, or introducing part-time teleworking.

2. Identify jobs which are suitable for full or partial teleworking: consider how much the employee needs to be in the company’s premises.

3. Confirm that the work can be carried out in one room, without creating a nuisance for neighbours or requiring planning permission.

4. Consider whether individuals have the right attitude and skills: for example, time-management, self-motivation and communication skills.

5. Organise any training required; plan how you will involve the teleworker in future training and development activities.

6. Identify the requirements for a home office such as a reasonable working environment, computer and phone equipment and furniture.

7. Plan the employee’s communications: how will email and the Internet be used, and how will incoming phone calls be re-routed? Do you need an intranet?

8. Consider any security issues: for example, protecting valuable equipment and confidential information.

9. Arrange any additional insurance required.

10. Provide guidance on health and safety: for example, seating and furniture layout, lighting and testing of electrical equipment.

11. Advise teleworkers to ensure that the home office retains some residential use (eg as a spare bedroom) to avoid business rates and tax problems.

12. Agree any modifications to employment contracts: for example, covering working hours, responsibilities for equipment, and additional expenses.

13. Agree clear performance targets and standards which you can use as the basis for managing the teleworker.

14. Keep in touch on a daily basis, and arrange regular face-to-face meetings; include the teleworker in company social events.

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Do's & Don'ts

Do:

Ensure that teleworkers have the right attitude and skills.

Provide guidance on creating an appropriate home office.

Use technology effectively.

Agree clear performance targets and standards.

Communicate on a daily basis.

Don’t:

Let teleworkers become isolated.

Allow skills and performance to deteriorate over time.

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