Live+Work

How to Setup Your Home Office

2007-08-13T11:46:00.000-04:00

Setting up a productive home office can be a challenge for those who have never worked at home and don’t know much about technology and the tools required to put together a great home office. Making sure you have all of these tools available will be easy to do know that you have your shopping list. If you are telecommuting employee, your company will generally provide you with the tools necessary to maintain productivity in your home. If you aren’t that technology savvy, an IT Professional from your organization may be called out to your home to assist with the implementation of your home office. Getting a checklist from your company of what you'll need to run your home office will be your very first step. What You'll Need

Get your Company Telecommute Check List or Get a General Home Office Check List
High Speed Internet Access – Cable Modem / DSL
Reliable Productivity PC/Laptop
Dedicated Phone Line
Good printer
Quiet Dedicated Space

Optional Tools and Accessories - Depends on your Work Environment

Secure VPN Connection to your Office
Web Camera – Video Conferencing
Mailing supplies / Fax Solution – Scanner

High Speed Internet Access via Cable Modem or DSL. When choosing your options, now is not the time to choose the cheapest or most meager plan. When requesting your service package from your provider the minimum speed you should be requesting from your provider is 1.5 mbps – 6 mbps (Download) and 768 mbps – 1.5mbps (upload). This is typically a good line speed for your Hi-Speed Internet services. The slower speeds like Dialup and 112 – 500 kbps will result in unreliable performance and many headaches when trying to work from home. I also recommend a wireless router so that you can work comfortably from anywhere you in your home. * If your company utilizes Microsoft Exchange Server / Outlook for your email services, you may want to find out from your internet service provider (ISP) if they are blocking ports 135-139.

A Reliable Productivity PC/Laptop will be the most critical part of your home office. You'll need to make sure it is capable of handling your workload and be totally optimized for working at home. This system may require some different requirements than your standard home PC. You'll need Microsoft Windows XP Professional as it has more security features built in than Windows XP Home Edition. Your workstation should also come equipped with with productivity software such as Microsoft Office Suite or a comparable product. Generally, your company will provide you with equipment and productivity software that handles your workload. However, if you are setting up a Home Office as an individual. Check out my recommended telecommuter package. *You may need to take your office on the road. If you are using a mobile laptop, make sure it has wireless networking features. A Dedicated Phone Line will be the hub of your communications with co-workers and clients. This line should be purposed strictly for business and should be void of all personal calls as it could interupt your daily work flow. I always suggest an inclusive phone package. VoIP is an option that has the best economical cost. Vonage for example has several options to suit your needs. Most packages are under $30 for both local and long distance, including Canada.

A Good Printer / Fax Solution / Scanner - Make sure you have a good printer. The all-in-one printer solutions seem to work well. All of your documents should carry the same professional look and weight of a true office document. Although it should be rare when you need to print a document as most everything will be done electronically. Also, arm yourself with a good PDF creator program. You can set security features on your documents and digitally sign them.

A Quiet Dedicated Space - This one is easy! Make sure your home office is in a secluded and remote area of your home. Your home office should be free of the sounds of household and the neighbor's barking dogs. There is nothing worse than trying to conduct a teleconference and having two barking dogs as a distraction to the real topic.

Your Optional Tools and Accessories will be broadly based on the work you are doing and how your company's Network infrastructure is designed. If you are connecting to your company remotely, chances are you will need VPN authorization and / or a Terminal Services or Citrix account. This information should be provided to you by your company and help you gain access to your Network. On a good day, it should almost be as if you were physically sitting there in the main office.

A Web Camera is necessary if there will be video conferencing. In most cases, this is highly unlikely. However, the occassion may present itself when your manager merely wants to see your face.

Mailing / Shipping Supplies - Just in case there is something that does require a signature, know you your shipping and mailing options, and be prepared with shipping supplies. The United States Postal Service offer free shipping supplies which can be ordered FREE OF CHARGE at The Postal Store. Also check with your local UPS and Fedex corporate accounts to have shipping supplies shipped directly to you.

Common Work From Home Job Scams

2007-08-12T23:04:00.000-04:00

Unfortunately, scams reside everywhere! Even in your job search. The predator looks for the vulnerably desperate to work and goes out their way to create a legitimate looking business to reel you in. Unfortunately these scams can pose to minimal inconveinces in life all the way to criminal charges being brought against for fraud and theft. Suggestedly so, it makes good since to do your homework when someone contacts you about a position that often sounds to easy and good to be true. There are some simple things you can do protect yourself from the Job Scams.

1. Protect your Personal Information Never give out your information on the first phone call. We know it needs not to be said, but never give out your social security number. Nor should you give the last four digits of your social security number. Many of your personal accounts can be accessed by giving the last four digits of your social security number. Plus they can check your credit and obtain fake identication under your name. Now formerly Jose Menendez if now "Your Name Here".

Best Idea If an employers the last four of your Social Security Number to submit you to a job, make up ficticious four digit number and use it for all your job submissions.

2. Research Before replying with your resume, research the company online by visiting their company website and checking for any consumer complaints against the company for fraud. Make sure the email addres you received the job order from matches the company.

Best Idea Get the company's phone number from their website, call the company back and ask for the person who sent you the email. This method is not foolproof, as people buy domain names and put up websites at the drop of a hat. But if they have passed the first step, the second step should be enough to comfirm the validity of the job. Be very wary of positions resulting from overseas.

The Most Popular Job Scams on the Rise Today

1. The International Check Cashing Scam Cleverly disguised as "Foreign Agent Agreement." This job is boldly found on many jobs boards and you may just get an email out of the blue even if you weren't looking for a job to begin with. To give you the short version. You'll get an email the states that their company in Nigeria, Denmark, or Italy has an open position for someone who has a basic accounting background with good administrative details. They need you to accept payments in the form of checks, and bank wires from their clients in the United States. This allows them tax breaks, and essentially you will be paid "under the table" as your employer is over seas. You'll need to be honest and trustworthy. Upon cashing these checks, you'll keep a percentage (perhaps 10% - 15%) for yourself and wire or send a money order to them with the balance. Sounds Fantastic Right? Well, unfortunately, these funds have been obtained fraudently, and the last known paper trail of who cashed in these fraudently checks or received the money wires is you. Putting you in a pretty bad predicament with the law. Definitely steer clear of this Scam!

2. The Home Shipper This one is pretty simple. Basically you are asked to reship merchandise that has been purchased illegally. When the investigation starts for credit card fraud, the first place the police and possible the FBI will show is the place that received the stolen goods! Your House. When you give the Details of where you shipped the merchandise, whether cops believe you or not, chances are the crooks have made off with the goods at that abandoned house they had you ship the goods to. Ouch! This one is ugly too.

3. Or the most inauspicious scam "Envelop Stuffing" Basically you are told to place and ad similar if not the same one you responded to for the job. When you someone sends money in for requesting info on Envelop stuffing, you get paid on the number or responses your ad receives. Kind of chain letter, MLM scam. Some people just have too much free time on their hands.

4. The most common Job Scam If they are asking you to pay for something upfront like a list of companies who hire work from home employees, training materials to work for their company, etc, Move On! No legitimate company should be asking you to pay for anything other than a uniform, and most companies will even provide you that. Say no to Medical Billing!

For the most part, just use common sense. Imagine someone showing up on your doorstep and asking for personal information. Unless you invited them to your home, there is no reason they should be there. Good luck in your job search!

The Telecommuter Checklist

2007-08-12T16:22:00.000-04:00

The success of the telecommuting arrangement depends on a realistic assessment of the work space, and the ability of the employee to successfully complete their work in this environment. HOME CHARACTERISTICS

A clearly defined workspace that is clean, free from distractions and obstructions, and is in ergonomically sound condition.
Desk recommended height for conventional desk surface is 29" high. Sturdy enough to handle the weight of peripheral equipment (e.g. computers, printers, fax machines, etc.).
Chair recommended height of the top surface of the seat to floor should be 15–21". Chair provides support to the back and waist; and adjustable for height and angle of the backrest.
The work area is adequately illuminated.
The area is well ventilated and heated.
Storage is organized to minimize risks of fire and spontaneous combustion.
All extension cords have grounding conductors.
Electrical enclosures (switches, outlets, receptacles, and junction boxes) have tight-fitting covers or plates.
Surge protectors are used for computers, fax machines, and printers.
Computer components are kept out of direct sunlight and away from heaters.
Are aisles, doorways, and corners free of obstructions to permit movement?
Are file cabinets and storage closets arranged so drawers and doors do not open into walkways?
Is the space crowded with furniture?
Are the phone lines, electrical cords, and extension wires secured under a desk or alongside baseboard?
Does the family understand, support, and allow your work environment to be free from distraction?

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Emergency phone numbers (hospital, fire department and police department) are posted at the alternate work site.
A first aid kit is easily accessible and replenished as needed.
Portable fire extinguishers are easily accessible and serviced as needed.
A smoke detector detectable from the work space.

TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS

Personal computer
High Speed Internet Access
Printer/Fax/Scanner
Productivity Software
Access to central facilities (mainframe, LAN, etc.)
Dedicated Telephone line and Telephone set
Web Camera
Mailing / Shipping Supplies

Click Here for a Downloadable Version (PDF Format)

Coolest Job Search Ever - Indeed Jobs

2007-08-11T08:30:00.000-04:00

If you've come here looking for the Telecommute Jobs, You can find those in the sidebar on the right. I found this Job Search Engine called Indeed Jobs and it pulls back all of the jobs that have been posted in just about any job search engine.

Landing a Telecommute Job

2007-08-10T21:22:00.000-04:00

Naturally one would assume a job where you could work at home wouldn't just land on your doorstep. These are some of the hardest jobs to come by. Especially those that don't want you to buy a bunch of "Training Materials" and equipment to "Work From Home." The only ones that are really getting over on the entire Work From Home schemes are the people who are selling you the idea of working from home.

However, there are some legitatimate companies who does have positions that allow you to work from home. I've even seen some companies go as far as buying homes and putting together an entire staff in a nice four bedroom home. The statement "Go to your room" is something you probably thought you would never hear again. However, I liked the setup, and the savings on business expenses were phonemenal. Get residential pricing on everything! From phone service to cable. And the rewards of being able to cook your lunch and relax on the living (waiting room) sofa is more than awesome.

Landing a legitimate work from home job.
I'll be honest, they are pretty hard to find, but they are out there. There are plenty on Monster.com and other job boards. You have to know how to search for them. Simply putting in "Work from home" is guaranteed to pull back almost every spammer who has an account on Monster pleading for you to purchase their information kit.

Instead of putting the tradition "work from home" in seach string try some drilled down keywords. "Telecommute" and "Remote Work" are really good keyword strings and is sure to bring back more successful results. My secret place for looking for work from home jobs Indeed Jobs

Anolog Lines or VoIP - Which is best for Home Office

2007-08-10T14:18:00.000-04:00

Previously, we talked about setting up our home office. I spoke briefly about communication and setting up a dedicated phone line specifically for doing business. There are so many choices out there, it comes down to whats going to be the best solution for you.

What is VoIP?
VoIP is a revolutionary new phone service that uses your broadband Internet connection. If you have a broadband Internet connection, VoIP can relay your voice over the Internet using a regular phone and a phone adapter. This is a technology known as VoIP.

All you need is a broadband connection (such as Satellite, DSL or Cable Modem) and a regular corded or cordless touchtone phone. You can even keep your existing phone number. We can even connect your VoIP so all your phone jacks work in your home or office. Click on the banner below to start saving or contact us directly by email or phone.

In most cases, your business should never be without total loss of communication from your clients and company. A system that provides failover technology should be considered optimal. Speaking from experience, when we had a power outage, it was pretty nice the way our vonage services handled our phone lines. Because there was no power to our Vonage phone adapter, it automatically routed all the phone calls to our secondary line which happened to be the Cell phone. We never missed one phone call during our primary business hours. When you do sign up for Vonage, make sure you take the time to go through your Vonage control panel and setup all your features.

Vonage is not the only VoIP company out there. There are many you can choose from. Even tradional analog companies are finding the advantages of having VoIP solution. AT&T offers a solution (AT&T CallVantage® Service Plan) along with their high speed internet services. All the rateplans are generally pretty reasonable. And should fall under $30 unless you are going for the business plans which would include multi-user features!

AT&T Employees Telecommute

2007-08-07T21:41:00.000-04:00

Telecommute is the practice of working at a location other than the normal workplace and communicating with your fellow workers through the phone, typically with a computer and modem. More companies are are adding the benefit of telecommuting to the list of perks to keep employee turnover rates low. For companies, having Virtual Employees are an absolute benefit of keeping business operating costs low. It has proven itself over time to keep employee moral high as there is increased productivity. Working from home also cuts down on traffic congestion and released vehicle emission, which also results in fewer commuter accidents. The International Telework Association and Council (ITAC) survey shows that average of 35,000 AT&T employees telecommute while 56% of managers telecommute once a month, 27% one day a weel and 11% telecommute 100% of the average work year. AT&T has developed Alternative Officing, a comprehensive program that currently allows 30,000 employees nationally to telecommute on a regular basis from home.

AT&T conducted a five year study of 600 telecommuters and concluded the following:

The most substantial savings were in reduced real estate costs. By allowing employees to telecommute, AT&T was able to close an entire office complex. Annual Real Estate Savings: $6,333,124.
In addition to hard cost savings, there were substantial productivity gains. AT&T, based on employee interviews, estimates a conservative gain of two and a half hours per employee per week in time worked. Annual gain due to increased productivity: $5,112,841.
Also, employees state almost without exception that they were able to be more productive during the hours they worked, due primarily to fewer interruptions. Annual gain due to increased efficiency: $3,127,617.
There were, of course, start-up costs associated with setting up employees to work at home.Office alterations averaged $3,000 per employee and computer/phone installations averaged $4,000 per employee. These costs were depreciated over five years and $1,250 per employee per year was added for phone, fax, copy and postage bills. Annual costs: $3,205,507. AT&T Cost Savings & Productivity Gains Real Estate Savings $6,333,124 Productivity Gains Hour $5,112,841 Productivity Gains Efficiency $3,127,617 Total $14,573,582 Less Costs (3,205,507) Net Annual Gain $11,368,075

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Live+Work Lofts

2007-07-30T09:30:00.000-04:00

Speaking of Live+Work spaces... Lofts have increased in popularity in the last 5 years. There are plenty of lofts popping up all over the Detroit Metro area. Embarking on a SoHo Style Life in an area that desperately needed it. Today's lofts introduces the FLEX space. It's not exactly an extra bedroom or it could be used an office space. Royal Oak has quite a nice and inviting atmosphere for Live+Work Lofts. The ones I favor the most, Main North Lofts are in an ideal location.

Next time of one the Royal Oak Loft Tours rolls around, be sure and get in on the action. You can find out more information about the tours by visiting Virtual Royal Oak. You'll get to visit all (Well Most) of the Loft Developments including The Fifth, SkyLofts MarketSquare, 400 Parent Avenue, Lofts at 11, Troy Street Lofts, Main North Terraces, Eight 55 South Main, 610 South and Metro Station. Buses departed every fifteen minutes and you were allowed to stay at each station as long as you liked. You can also visit sites like The Loft Critic They have a lot of good information on Lofts in Metro Detroit.

If you do select Royal Oak as your Live+Work Community, you'll have great restaurants and coffee shops to meet clients. It's not always an optimal situation to have clients meet you at your home depending on your business. However, if you're strictly a Telecommuter, you'll get the best of both worlds... Work From Home and when the work day is done, walk outside your front on to the sidewalk of food, shopping, and entertainment.

Its Coming Back! Live+Plus Work

2007-07-27T20:15:00.000-04:00

Its coming back and it may be here to stay. The old way of life where having your daily job came just steps from walking out of the front door of your home. Businesses seem to be popping up with their owners living on top of them. With the cost of gasoline on the rise more feverishly than every. Everyone is looking for ways to cut costs.

The option to telecommute within the workplace is on the rise! There are humongous benefits where telecommuting for employees are involved. Its almost the like the work place is Going Green by offering telecommute options to its employees. The fuel savings, one less car adding to the pollution, less cause for traffic accidents, and a low turnovers. Let's face it, you don't have too many out there quitting their telecommute job. As it offers a new and more rewarding lifestyle. The flexibility between work and family just became one!

Making this work does have its challenges. Not all employers are ready to give up their micro-management style of supervision and feel the need to see their employees on a day to day bases. In which case, you may have to create a very strong case and present a well thought out proposal for your temptuous dream of telecommuting. When you do present your proposal, it should be well thought out. Believe me, management will throw every possible "no" they can think of. Fortunately there are lots of resources out there to get you started in presenting the best case scenario for obtaining your work from home position.

The number one frustration everyone seems to have at this point is the cost of fuel and actually affording a regular driving commute to and from work. When I recently looked at my credit card statements, I was amazed (well not really) to see that 5 of 6 of my purchases we're to corner gas station. At least these days, I can say it's not frivolous spending that has me in debt. My point is, it is getting tougher for the daily commuter to even go to work. There are some companies out there implementing programs and projects for its employees to help save on costs. Car pools are more popular than ever.

What we are also noticing is a trend thats reforming the concept of the Live+Work space. Creating an office or a business right beneath the very feet you sleep on. There are are some developers in Ferndale, Michigan who have actually taken the initiative to build new homes. Novi-based builder Terra Land Group is building several dozen live/work units in which the owners operate a business or storefront on the ground level while living in a condominium above. The concept allows business owners the luxury of virtually no commute. Check out this article by the Detroit News.

What is a Live+Work Unit?
Ideas for small businesses often progress through different space needs, from a spare room at home, to a garage and often next to a Live/Work space. The use of the term Live/Work indicates the predominant use of a unit is residential and commercial activity is a secondary use; Employees and walk-in trade are not typical but are acceptable.