Survey: Would You Take A Pay Cut To Telecommute?
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto on 07.16.08
With the rising cost of gas and the lengthening time of commutes, a lot of people are looking more closely at the idea of working from home via computer. When we asked the question "Do you telecommute?" last year, 40% of our respondents said "I would love to but my company won't let me." Now a new study of IT workers suggests that almost 40% of workers would take a 10% pay cut to telecommute.
Thirsty for more? Check out these related articles:
- Save Gas and Reduce Emissions by Learning to Parallel Park!
- The Seven Most Un-TreeHugger Products of 2008
- Greenwashed Theater Charges for Being "Green"
- Set Up a Home Office, a Comprehensive Guide
This is an interesting survey, but the results are kind of predictable considering it's on Treehugger.com
If the paycut is equal to the compensation for time spent driving, and the amount spent on gas, then why not? There's also the added benefit of being able to prepare your lunch at home, more savings and a healthier lunch! I'm surprised more people didn't choose "yes" I guess the question doesn't specify whether it would be equivalent.
Reducing pay would be another way to keep women in the workplace at less than equitable pay. They often need the flexibility to work around their families. Reduced pay for reduced productivity is fine, but if you're doing the same job, it should be for the same pay. The savings in gas, career clothing and lunch are the benefits.
Pay didn't change in past telecommuting experiences. I don't see the rationale for taking a pay cut since my experience, and that of others I know, has been that a telecommuter works more hours and often 24/7. Employers have the added benefit of space-sharing your office or cubby thus lowering the overhead expenses you cost them when in the office.
I already do. My company cut our works hrs. without asking. It is a lot harder without 40 hours. when you have a family to take care of.