Must-Haves for Telecommuters
In today’s day and age, we all know that working from home requires much more than a computer, basic connectivity to the net and email. Without the proper networking and other communication tools, working from home can be a challenge.
See that your home office is up to par by checking off the items below:
- Hardware Firewall: install a router that will act as your first line of defense against network attacks. Popular routers include Linksys, Netgear, and D-link.
- Software Firewall: install software that will monitor the programs that are running and, in turn, create a second level of defense.
- Virus Scanning Software: A must have for all computers - especially computers where you have precious work files saved. Look at Symantec or McAfee.
- Web Conferencing: a must-have for anyone working from home who wants to stay in the game and control meetings from afar. Web conferencing solutions include WebEx, Microsoft Live Meeting, GoToMeeting by Citrix, and more.
- Application Sharing: want to show exactly what it is you are working on? To share applications, you can use web conferencing tools or programs such as Microsoft NetMeeting for small groups or one-on-one.
- Instant Messaging: Don’t waste time or money with a phone call to someone when you just need something quick. IM allows you to get answers quickly or be available if someone on the other end needs you.
- A personal organizer (Think Blackberry)
- Cell phone and landline phone. (And make sure the landline has a speaker phone feature!) Speaker phones come in very handy for lengthy conference calls.
Lastly, do not underestimate the tried and true cell phone and speaker phone. I can not live without both. The cell phone allows anyone to get a hold of me as if I am next to them in the cube. The speakerphone (or headset) allows free hands during the long conference calls.
What about you - do you have any “must-haves for telecommuters” to add to the list?
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