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Online work trend taking hold in Michigan

jdurham
/
Morguefile

Working online from home is growing in popularity in Michigan.

A nonprofit group says about 47% of adults in the state say they telework now, or would like to.

Eric Frederick is with “Connect Michigan.”

He says teleworkers tend to be better-educated. He also says the trend is growing with people 55 and older – including retirees who want to supplement their income.

And Frederick says as more businesses expand their online presence, they’re looking for employees.

"A lot of administrative functions can be done," Frederick says. "Call centers is one good example. We've seen a lot of call centers  coming back to the United States."

And he says the teleworking trend is not just popular with younger people.

"Older adults, maybe at the tail end of their career, or they've taken early retirement and need to supplement their incomes, have taken part-time positions, smaller positions, and chosen teleworking as an option," Frederick says.

He says the trend is helping people stay in Michigan because they can work for companies located outside the state.

He also says teleworking helps decrease traffic congestion and pollution.