What will have to happen before I can telework?
- You will need to reach an agreement with your supervisor on a number of aspects of the telework assignment, including what part of your work will be done at home, your work schedule, how and when you will communicate with your supervisor and colleagues, and how your work will be evaluated.
- You will probably be required to sign a telework agreement with your agency. See our sample telework agreement.
- You will need to identify an appropriate work location in your home which is safe, comfortable, free from distractions, and with adequate working space and access to all the resources you need to carry out your job. You don't need to devote an entire room for your office at home. Some teleworkers have successfully developed a part of an existing room, a garage, an attic, or even a closet for their workstation. Working on the couch in front of the TV is not a good idea!
- It may be necessary for your agency to place Government owned computers and telecommunications equipment in your home or at other alternative worksites before you can begin your teleworking.
- You may need to be trained in the use of this hardware and software, and arrangements need to be made for technical assistance and hardware maintenance.
- Your agency may decide to provide you with a telephone credit card. Agencies are authorized to use Government funds to install telephone lines, and necessary equipment, and to pay monthly charges in any private residence or private apartment of an employee who has been authorized to work-at-home.
- Your agency may ask you to conduct a safety inspection of your telework work space before you may start to use it for teleworking. See our safety guidelines for home work space.
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