Telework option makes for happier employees

Like most employees, federal employees want choices. And it turns out that employees who have the choice to telework, regardless of whether they do so, are more satisfied at their jobs than those who don't have that choice, according to an analysis by the Partnership for Public Service.

The partnership used the analytical framework from its 2010 Best Places to Work rankings to put together a telework snapshot released March 7.

Data in the snapshot reveals that when compared to those not permitted to telework, teleworkers are more satisfied with the recognition they receive for doing a good job and more satisfied with the involvement in decisions that affect their work.

These findings suggest that flexible work arrangements are a “powerful and low-cost performance reward,” as the partnership stated, but they also confirm that giving feds choices makes them feel empowered.

In addition, the survey data indicates that teleworkers believe that they are held accountable to the same degree as those who work in the office.

“Likewise, we found relatively small differences between teleworkers and non-teleworkers on the question ‘I know how my work relates to the agency’s goal and priorities,’ ” the partnership stated. “This suggests that concerns by some managers that teleworkers can become disconnected from their agency may be overblown.”

Managers wary of allowing their employees to telework should look at the data and consider their own organizations. It seems that giving employees the option to telework might not only brighten their outlook, it could actually improve their performance.