East Valley Tribune - April 19, 2005

Telecommuting Allows E.V. Mom to Focus on Quality of Life

“Sometimes a pay cut means more money. Through telecommuting, Willow CyberAgent Jessica LaFlesch turned that notion into reality.

“By working out of her Higley area home, she strikes a pleasant balance between career and motherhood — and cuts living costs at the same time.

“As a freelance customer service representative for Willow CSN, LaFlesch takes calls or orders from clients such as AAA. The job requires some training, a computer and a phone line.

“LaFlesch sets her own schedule of 35 to 45 hours a week, allowing this mother of four children (ages 3, 5, 6 and 11) to spend more time helping with homework, among other things. Although she earns less than at her old job, telecommuting has eliminated several costs associated with working outside the home.

“For one thing, she buys less gasoline... More savings come from subtracting miscellaneous costs such as dry cleaning and trips to vending machines.

“On top of that, she no longer needs a nanny to watch her children.

“’I’m saving so much more money,’ she said. ‘I’m actually ahead doing this.’”