Working at Home – Is it for You?
by Marcia Bartol, EO, Greater Bangor Association of REALTORS®


More than ever, many employers and employees are considering the pros and cons of working from home. The greatest advantage to the employer is that there is no overhead such as mortgage or rent, heat, electricity and other costs associated with maintaining or renting space. But the advantages/disadvantages of an employee working from home also must be considered, so I’ve put together some things to think about, from the perspective of a work-from-home association executive:
• Outside interruptions. Working at home often means outside interruptions. Visitors will stop in for coffee, family members may need my help with something…others don’t often think of you as being “at work”. (My favorite thing is the business call I’m on that sounds “less than professional” when the dog starts barking at a squirrel he sees in the backyard.) Be firm with your friends and family from the beginning. Let them know that you are typically on the job during regular office hours.
• Conference/meeting space. Not having a large office with a conference room where meetings are held means your files are not readily available at such meetings. I often bring my laptop so I can provide answers to questions regarding budget, bylaws, membership numbers... Also, keep in mind you’ll have to “pack up” for membership meetings and education events – bringing the banner, flags, gavel, cash bag, handouts, and any other items of interest to the general membership. Make yourself a list of “must-haves” and put everything in one tote that’s ready to go when you need it. When you need space for small events or conferences, call on your affiliates – they are usually more than willing to help out.
Office space. If your home doesn’t have a designated office, you will need to convert an extra room. In my case, my workspace is in the same room as my “home office” – where I pay bills and have my desktop computer and personal files. I have an L-shaped desk, so I try to keep association business on one side and personal business on the other. I have file cabinets, but when those are full, I have to box up files that have to be kept.

Congratulations to Wayne Syphers, GPBR's 2011 REALTOR® of the Year!

We will honor Wayne at a social at DiMillo's Floating Restaurant on June 30th, from 5:30 - 7:30 pm on the Aft deck. Please come to shake Wayne's hand and enjoy great food and company.

This event is generously sponsored by:

Tom Caron of Northeast Inspection Services

and

Judi Hutzler of Mortgage Network

REALTOR® of the YEAR, that member who has shown outstanding contributions of time, energy and determination to strengthen our association on all levels. This person works hard to improve their level of education, professionalism and honest business conduct. This person has great participation in civic, community and cultural organizations; political activities; public service venues and makes contributions to the overall betterment of the community.