ManagementSpeak: I make it a point to buffer my employees from the burden of too many meetings outside the department.
Translation: I want to be the only one who gets any exposure.
I’d thank this week’s contributor by name, but she was concerned about the kind of exposure she’d have received.
Companies built from the ground up to either include a remote workforce or to consist of nothing but remote employees … in other words, virtual enterprises … can save quite a bit compared to providing cubicles.
Saving quite a bit isn’t the same as free, though. Among the reasons: While the case law isn’t entirely settled, there’s a pretty good bet the employer is responsible for providing a safe work environment whether that work environment is on premises or in the home.
That’s why, if you plan to allow or encourage telecommuting of any kind, you must talk with HR.
