Mar 26, 2006 7:45 am US/Central
Need Flexibility? Work From Home
by Jeanette Trompeter
(WCCO)
Working from home is nothing new, but the type of work an employee can do may be. These days, major companies are hiring customer service representatives to answer calls from the comfort of their own homes.
Nicole St. Julien-Thomas enjoys her full-time job at home.
"I'm an agent for CSAA, which is California State Automobile Association and I take calls for stranded motorists, who are members of AAA," she said.
She found the job through WillowCSN, a company which provides virtual call center services, which means she takes customer calls at her own home using her own phone and computer.
"The Willow home agent model is a great idea for people who are looking for flexibility and the ability to earn money during the times of the day that fit into their personal schedule," said Angie Selden, CEO of WillowCSN.
St. Julien-Thomas and other agents work when they want to.
"I think working from home is like a dream job for a lot of people. It's just perfect. You set your own hours, you're free to come and go," said St. Julien-Thomas.
Michele Mulqueeney works from home for the IRS, dealing with tax form requests.
She was hired by a company that specializes in jobs for people with disabilities.
Mulqueeney has multiple sclerosis and found it difficult to work outside the home.
"I couldn't drive anymore. And just getting up, getting showered and dressed. I would be exhausted," she said.
So Mulqueeney chooses to work part time, putting in about 28 hours a week.
"It really is wonderful. It has relieved me financially, it supplements my income, gives me breathing room," she said.
Applicants for at-home jobs are screened and training is provided by the company. All an applicant needs is a computer with a broadband connection, a telephone, and a friendly voice.
Benefits are not included in these types of jobs, but the flexibility allows for more freedom, especially for people juggling work and family.
(© MMVI, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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