I've worked 100% remote for 7+ years, and it is awesome.
- I've had the opportunity to see my kids grow up (they're 6 and 9 now).
- I get to see my wife for lunch and a coffee break every single day (she also works from home)
- As a developer, the amount of focus I'm able to achieve in my home office is incredible.
It isn't for everyone, though. Here's some things I've learned:
- If you're any sort of extrovert, you're going to need to find outlets to recharge your social batteries (I'm an introvert, so not much of a problem for me).
- It is MUCH easier working for a 100% distributed company. I've had friend work in both fully distributed organizations, and semi-distributed, and it is much tougher in the semi-distributed environment.
- You absolutely need to set yourself up for success. I have a home office in the basement, and it is _the_ office, not another room. You need something more than your kitchen table if you really want to do it long-term.
- You need to find a system to keep your focus up. I use the pomodoro technique and GTD.
- If you work with a team, it is critical you jump on the phone a few times a week to touch base, and a few times per year face-to-face. It is as much for human interaction as it is for the work itself.
Like I said, it isn't for everyone, but I think more companies should give it a go.
- I've had the opportunity to see my kids grow up (they're 6 and 9 now).
- I get to see my wife for lunch and a coffee break every single day (she also works from home)
- As a developer, the amount of focus I'm able to achieve in my home office is incredible.
It isn't for everyone, though. Here's some things I've learned:
- If you're any sort of extrovert, you're going to need to find outlets to recharge your social batteries (I'm an introvert, so not much of a problem for me).
- It is MUCH easier working for a 100% distributed company. I've had friend work in both fully distributed organizations, and semi-distributed, and it is much tougher in the semi-distributed environment.
- You absolutely need to set yourself up for success. I have a home office in the basement, and it is _the_ office, not another room. You need something more than your kitchen table if you really want to do it long-term.
- You need to find a system to keep your focus up. I use the pomodoro technique and GTD.
- If you work with a team, it is critical you jump on the phone a few times a week to touch base, and a few times per year face-to-face. It is as much for human interaction as it is for the work itself.
Like I said, it isn't for everyone, but I think more companies should give it a go.