TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
> Anyone have any advice for someone about to start telecommuting and how to deal with the usual stuff--boredom, distractions, lack of "face time" with others? How do I keep from getting so starved for adult conversation that I latch onto strangers at the grocery store or talk my husband's ears off? How do I keep from rearranging the furniture in the house or doing my spring cleaning when I'm supposed to be working? I'd like to know what's worked for other people.
If you're concerned that you're going to be bored or heavily
distracted, I think this arrangement is going to be exceptionally
difficult for you. Telecommuting requires focus and drive. If you
don't have them, you're going to have a very hard time getting things
done.
Aside from actual productivity, you need to worry about perceived
prodictivity. You need to set actual working hours for yourself and
keep them. Be online and available via e-mail/phone/IM during those
times. I suggest you keep regular office hours (8:30 to 5:30 with a
break for lunch). I also suggest you call into meetings that you'd
normally attend in-person, and be active in the meetings. Also, make
sure you are getting work done and people know it.
Telecommuting can be a great arrangement, but it can also be extremely
challenging. If you find yourself puttering around the house, you're
going to be in trouble.
New from Quadralay Corporation: WebWorks ePublisher Pro! Easily create
14 online formats, including 6 Help systems, in a project-based
workflow. Live, online demo! http://www.webworks.com/techwr-l
Doc-To-Help 2005 now has RoboHelp Converter and HTML Source: Author
content and configure Help in MS Word or any HTML editor. No
proprietary editor! *August release. http://www.componentone.com/TECHWRL/DocToHelp2005
---
You are currently subscribed to techwr-l as:
archiver -at- techwr-l -dot- com
To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-techwr-l-obscured -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Send administrative questions to lisa -at- techwr-l -dot- com -dot- Visit http://www.techwr-l.com/techwhirl/ for more resources and info.
