From inside the walls of a corporate office, it's easy to conjure up negative images of people who work from home.

Work for an hour; do the laundry. Work for another hour; eat a snack. Watch some TV. Walk the dog. Take a nap.

Perhaps that's why traditional employers have been hesitant to allow their employees to "telecommute," for fear they wouldn't actually do much work without supervision and a structured environment.

Online office chatter

Nothing beats chitchatting with colleagues around the watercooler. But as companies go national and global, and employees increasingly telecommute from home, the conversation hub may run the risk of becoming extinct in some offices.

The Best Office Jobs Might Be Closer Than You Think

Vicky Cargill spends most of her day taking calls and setting up meetings for company managers and directors she has never seen.

Six months ago Vicky set up a virtual PA business, which allows her to work from her home and means she saves around £2,400 a year on petrol. She is also able to juggle the work-home balance better – with the chance to get in a little housework or time off during the day.