Virtual office jobs and telecommuting positions are becoming increasingly common in the world of modern business. Such things have not been possible on such a large scale until very recently, but modern technology has finally brought industry to a point where the conventional office is unnecessary for many businesses. Virtual jobs have many advantages over conventional office positions, but there are also downsides to be considered.

Pro: Eliminate Commuting Expenses
You may not realize it, but commuting can be very expensive. Whether you commute by car or public transport, getting to work costs you money every day. If you pick up breakfast and coffee on your commute to work, you’re spending still more money every day. Finally, the time that you lose on your daily commute can cause a loss in productivity–another expense. Virtual jobs allow remote work from any connected location, eliminating the need for a commute and all related expenses.

Con: Loss of Human Contact
If you crave human contact in your daily life, making the switch to a virtual job can be somewhat jarring. As a virtual worker, you will typically operate out of a home office. While this allows you to enjoy the comforts of home during your regular work day, it can also lead to a feeling of isolation. Consider whether you will feel comfortable spending your working day alone, or if this will have an adverse effect on your mood and productivity.

Pro: Schedule Your Own Work Day
As a virtual worker, your regular working day will become much more of a flexible arrangement. Businesses have adopted the 9 to 5 schedule because it is the most productive and desirable arrangement for the majority, but it doesn’t work for everyone. If you’re one of the many people in the world who get their best work done in the evening, at night, or early in the morning, a virtual job will offer you the flexibility you need to create your own schedule. This also creates a great amount of freedom in your daily life.

Con: Problems in Communication
When you work remotely, it is very easy for things to be lost in translation. Assignments and projects need to be clearly explained to that confusion doesn’t arise. Communication problems are easy to work out when speaking face to face, but this can be more difficult when communicating through email or other channels. As a virtual worker, you will have to pay extra attention to communications in order to ensure that messages are getting across as they should.

Pro: Work in Comfort
If business attire and office atmosphere feels stifling and restrictive to you, a virtual job will allow you to work in comfort every day. When you work from home, you decide on your own dress code and appropriate conduct. You can decorate your work space any way you wish, and do your job without anyone looking over your shoulder all day long. Work as comfortable as you like in your New York virtual office every day, and eliminate the stifling feeling of conventional office atmosphere for good.