Confidentiality and Working From Home

An advantage or, some may argue, disadvantage of being self-employed is that it is very probable that you will be working from the comfort of your own home office and are therefore ‘off site’. This could mean some anxiety on the part of a client who cannot physically see how their project is being managed, so must put their trust in those undertaking their work not to broadcast it to all and sundry or leave documents behind on the bus. Apart, perhaps, from signing some sort of declaration, it has to be down to those undertaking the work to be discreet, and any sensitive information that they are party to must be treated with confidentiality.

In addition to this, there are simple procedures that can be put in place to keep information safely and confidentially. This can be merely a password for the computer or one for individual documents requiring their own password protection. Regular backups of files and up to date virus protection are all good practice when it comes to security of information. A confidentiality statement by the freelance worker can also be helpful in demonstrating to clients that the issue of confidentiality has been considered and addressed.

Finally, having a dedicated workspace imparts a much more professional impression of a business and encourages routines with fewer distractions. Working from a kitchen table amongst clutter with very little space is not wise. As well as the danger of the spilt cup of tea, there is a lack of privacy if the work is being undertaken in a communal part of a house, where confidentiality cannot be maintained.