Apple recently posted dozens of "home advisor" customer service jobs that require troubleshooting experience, high-speed internet and a comfortable chair. Following suit, Disney posted numerous part-time guest-service representatives to "bring stories to life with scripted and non-scripted guest-engagement statements" -- a comfortable chair optional.

As someone who's seen firsthand the benefits of remote work, I can assure you this "trend" isn't going away. I've personally worked remotely (mostly from a home office) for the past several years, and have consulted for organizations that continue to see major benefits for their employees, including:

* Greater flexibility

* No commute, which robs many of hours per day

* Escape from the noise and distractions of the open office

* Greater productivity

* Better-quality work

* More opportunity to "stay in the zone," leading to more home runs

Apple describes the "Home Advisor" as a person who responds when people contact Apple for help. The job description describes ideal candidates as friendly, thoughtful, and real. They are "curious investigators, technical problem solvers, and good listeners" and like the way it feels to help others, have the discipline to manage themselves, can focus in a home environment, and are good multitaskers.

The company requires that you have access to a "quiet, distraction-free work space with a door you can shut, an ergonomic chair, a desk ... and your own network connection."

However, Apple also promises to provide home workers with the following tools and benefits:

* iMac and headset

* Paid training

* A network of colleagues

*  "A robust benefits package," including product discounts and paid time off

* And you've got to love the fact that Apple's putting its famous marketing muscles behind this effort.

Source: inc