VirtualVocations

Just like the late comedian, Rodney Dangerfield, many at-home workers often feel like they get no respect.  Friends presume they can drop by in the middle of a work day, clients offer insulting rates, and family members expect us to play homemaker while we earn a living.     

Frustrating as these attitudes are to deal with, the only way to combat the stereotypical image of the Oprah-watching, pajama-wearing home worker, is to demonstrate professionalism.  This doesn’t mean we need to spend our days in power suits, but it does mean that we need to present an image consistent with our chosen profession.   

Here are some ways to prove you’re to be taken seriously when working from home: 

• Purchase a noise cancelling device to use during business calls.  This will prevent clients and coworkers from hearing kids, televisions, dogs, and any other household or neighborhood noises.  
  
• Limit your availability to others during work periods.  If neighbors learn you’re not available to visit with them and your husband finds you do not drop what you’re doing every time he calls, they will gradually learn to respect your work time.  
  
• Do not take personal calls.  Use caller ID to screen calls, and let personal calls go to voice mail.  Return calls when you take a work break, just as you would in a traditional work environment.  
  
• Dress for success.  While there is no need to put on your best clothing, you will find yourself being more productive if you fix your hair and put on clean, comfortable clothing when you work.  You will also present a professional image to those who see you during your work day.  
• Honor deadlines and commitments. Prove to clients and superiors that you do not need supervision to complete your work in a timely manner.  
  
• Produce quality work.  Put forth your best effort, regardless of the type of work you do.   
  
• Value what you do.  This means charging a fair rate and having a good attitude about the contribution you make to society and your household finances.  
  
• Operate on a loose schedule.  One of the benefits of working from home is flexibility, but flexibility has its limits.  Clients and coworkers want to know they can reach you if needed, so check your voicemail and email regularly, and return messages promptly.  Adhering to some form of a schedule will also help family, friends, and neighbors respect your work time.  
  

It is one of life’s great truths that people will take you seriously to the degree that you show them you are serious about yourself.  Get serious about your at-home job by demonstrating professionalism, and respect from others will follow.