Telework-Happy Feds

Federal employees who at least have the option of teleworking are more satisfied with their jobs and the recognition they receive than those who do not have that choice, new research suggests.

As part of its Best Places to Work in the Federal Government analysis, the Partnership for Public Service teamed up with Deloitte to understand the relationship between telework, job satisfaction and commitment. They found that employees who at least had the choice to telework -- whether or not they actually take advantage of it -- are more satisfied with their jobs. Employees who were not allowed to telework even though their job would allow it were the least satisfied, the study found.

The study also showed that telework and other flexible work arrangements may be a powerful and low-cost performance award. When asked about the recognition received for good performance, teleworkers rated their satisfaction 15 points higher than those who are not allowed to telework. When asked about involvement decisions that affect their work, teleworkers were 16 points more positive than non-teleworkers, the study found.

Teleworkers also believe they are held to the same standards of accountability while teleworking as those who work in the office. Results for both teleworkers and non-teleworkers were more than 80 percent positive when asked about accountability, rebutting the argument from some managers that those who telework cannot be held as responsible for their performance as those in the office.

The Office of Personnel Management reported last month that 5.72 percent of federal workers took advantage of telework options in 2009. That number is sure to increase in the coming years, as legislation signed into law in December requires agencies to improve their use of telework as a strategic management tool.

"Managers should have conversations with employees about telework opportunities, keeping in mind the value of this flexibility," the study states. "Just having that option available, regardless of whether it is actually used, can have a positive impact on employee satisfaction, and ultimately on job performance."