Guidelines for Employers Operating from Residential Spaces (Including Homes, Apartments, Studios, etc.)

The COVID-19 pandemic and work from home procedures have significantly transformed the way organizations operate, leading many employers to conduct their operations from residential settings. While this shift has created new opportunities, it also presents unique considerations for hiring college students and the USC Career Center would like to offer perspectives from both vantage points. Employers must ensure student safety, adhere to work liability standards, and provide meaningful, professional experiences that align with the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Principles for Ethical Professional Practice.

Below are recommended guidelines to assist employers in creating safe, ethical, and structured opportunities for students.

1. Uphold Student Safety

  • Safe Workspace:
    • Provide a professional and dedicated workspace separate from personal areas of your home. Ensure it is free from hazards and conducive to work.
    • Share emergency procedures, safety protocols, and any relevant safety training.
    • Inform students if cameras are installed in the designated work area (both internal and external), including whether they record activity, their purpose (e.g., security, compliance), and how footage is used. Students should acknowledge this disclosure to ensure transparency and compliance with privacy regulations.
  • Transportation and Insurance Considerations:
    • If on-site work involves travel, ensure proper insurance and transportation arrangements for the student’s safety.
    • If on-site work involves travel, you must clearly outline transportation and insurance responsibilities. If driving is required and you do not provide a vehicle, this must be stated in the internship criteria, ensuring students are aware they need a valid driver’s license and personal auto insurance. You should cover gas mileage for work-related travel. If a company vehicle is provided, you must ensure proper insurance coverage, whether the student is driving or being transported.

2. Define the Nature of Work

  • Clear Job Descriptions:
    • Clearly outline job responsibilities, expectations, and the purpose of the role. Focus on tasks that align with the student’s academic and professional goals.
  • Professional Work Assignments:
    • Avoid assigning personal errands or tasks unrelated to your business. Ensure the work adds value to the student’s career development, in addition to the organization.
  • Transparency About Business Operations:
    • Be upfront about your home-based business setup and its implications for the student’s role, including whether work will be conducted remotely or on-site.

3. Address Work Liabilities

  • Liability Insurance:
    • Confirm that your business liability insurance covers employees and interns working at your residence or remotely.
  • Compliance with Employment Laws:
    • Abide by local, state, and federal labor laws, including minimum wage requirements, hours of work, and breaks.
    • Properly classify the student as an employee or intern based on Department of Labor guidelines.
  • Workplace Harassment Policies:
    • Maintain a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. Clearly communicate Human Resources reporting procedures for any issues that arise.

4. Ensure Professionalism and Structure

  • Professional Environment:
    • Create a structured work experience by establishing clear boundaries between personal and professional spaces.
    • Use formal communication channels for all work-related interactions.
  • Onboarding and Training:
    • Provide a thorough onboarding process to familiarize students with your business, their role, and company policies.
    • Offer relevant training and resources to support the student’s success.
  • Supervision and Feedback:
    • Students must have a dedicated supervisor to guide the student. Schedule regular check-ins to provide feedback and discuss progress. For additional professional development, we would recommend that staff suggest a mentor (other than the supervisor) to assist with their experience however it’s not required. 

5. Foster Flexibility and Transparency

  • Flexible Arrangements:
    • Offer hybrid or remote work options when possible to accommodate the student’s academic commitments.
    • Clearly define work hours and allow flexibility for unexpected academic obligations.
  • Open Communication:
    • Maintain transparent and respectful communication to address student concerns or clarify expectations.

6. Promote Equity and Inclusion, and Access

  • Equal Opportunity Employment:
    • Ensure your hiring practices are inclusive and compliant with anti-discrimination laws.
    • Provide opportunities to students from diverse backgrounds to create an equitable and welcoming work environment.
  • Inclusive Practices:
    • Adapt to the needs of students, including those with disabilities or those requiring additional accommodations, to ensure they can fully participate in the work experience, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act; as applicable.

7. Evaluate and Enhance the Student Experience

  • Performance Evaluations:
    • Provide regular feedback to the student to support their professional growth. Include both formal reviews and informal check-ins.
  • Focus on Learning Outcomes:
    • Design the work experience to align with the student’s academic and career goals. Clearly outline the skills and knowledge they will gain.
  • Feedback for Improvement:
    • Collect feedback from the student about their experience to refine your internship or employment processes for future hires.

By following these guidelines, employers operating from residential spaces can create a safe, ethical, and enriching experience for college students that aligns with USC’s commitment to a safe, harassment-free environment and non-discrimination policies. Adherence to these practices not only ensures compliance but also fosters trust and credibility, benefiting both employers and students.