Telework - the new summer trend
Increasing gas prices and unbearable congestion is making many employers rethink their business models. A recent article on CNN.com, "Gas prices drive workers- and bosses- to telecommute," explores how high commuting costs are getting employers to consider allowing their employees to telework at least one day per week. The article shares the experience of John Thorner of the National Recreation and Park Association. Describing his organization's situation, Thorner states, "The 70 people in our office drive an average of 30 miles a day. We did the math and figures that by having the employees not commute on days a week, we would be saving 100 gallons a week." Those saved gallons undoubtedly go back into each employee's pocket, increase employee morale, and tangibly positively effect the environment. It's a win-win situation.
And it gets better. Telework!VA, a program administered through the VA Department of Rail and Public Transportation, offers incentives for Virginia businesses to expand or introduce a formalized telework program. Details about the program, application process, and other requirements are listed online at TeleworkVa.org.
Hopefully, the increased interest in telework won't be a trend that comes with increasing gas prices, but an increasingly accepted program that benefits employers, employees, and the environment. Those gallons really do add up and when saved, can make a significant impact.
