Recent events have accelerated the remote working trend and some of us might actually be pretty good at it. For the rest of us, many easy structural tweaks can improve your work-life balance. Here’s the ultimate guide to working remotely:
Organize Your Time
One of the advantages of working remotely is not having a commute to work! But, the trip from your comfortable bed to the computer could sometimes make it even harder for you when to start and end work. Use a planner, and create a daily and weekly schedule. Make sure to have a “to-do” list to check off everything you have to do. Also, be clear about your work-from-home availability and have a set work schedule.
Create a Stable Workspace
Dedicate a part of your house as your workspace. Avoid working on your bed or even the kitchen! Also, invest in quality work furniture such as a table and a chair that you would be completely comfortable working at. Create an environment where you are motivated, comfortable, and productive.
Dress up for work
One thing people struggle with the most when it comes to working remotely is creating a line between work and home life. To avoid this, get into the habit of setting yourself up for success! Create a morning routine: Get out of your pajamas, and dress professionally during your meetings.
Manage Distractions
From your television to your cell phone, there are many distractions at home, especially when your boss isn’t around! To be productive, do not spend too much time on your phone. Turn off app notifications that do not pertain to your work so that you won’t get distracted. Don’t use your television as white noise. Instead, curate a playlist that would help you focus.
Create Boundaries with People at Home
Communicate with the people you are living with about your new job situation, and set up some ground rules. Talk to them about your hours and daily meeting schedules. If you have kids, set an agenda daily. Include educational materials and even sources of entertainment.
Take Breaks
It’s easy to overwork when working from home, so it is important to relax and take clear breaks so you don’t get burnt out! Close your computer, get out of your workspace and stretch out. Do not skip meals and eat healthy snacks. This way you could feel refreshed and ready to work, increasing your productivity!
Be Responsive
Communicate with your team as much as possible. Check in with them frequently, and update them on your progress. Return calls and emails promptly, and resolve issues promptly. Also, if you have any questions or are confused about something, don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Ask for Feedback
Ask your other team members on how you can improve. Expressing yourself in meetings is important, especially if working remotely is new to everyone. It would be beneficial to track your progress when your team communicates about it.
Invest in Reliable Tech
When it comes to working remotely, having reliable tech is vital. Be sure to have access to consistent Wifi, so that you’re able to connect with your team. Investing in noise-canceling headphones is also a great way to communicate clearly, especially when you live with kids and pets. For efficiency, you could also use wireless equipment such as a keyboard and mouse.
Have a virtual Team Bonding Activity
Just because you work from home does not mean you and your team cannot have time for team bonding. At Reason, we created a way for you and your team to have a team-building adventure in the comfort of your own home! Find hints, solve puzzles, and help an astronaut escape in Lola in Space, the World’s First Remote Team Escape Experience!
Conclusion
From avoiding the commute to working in your pajamas, some love the idea of working from home. Others dread staying home all day, and miss returning to the office and seeing their co-workers. Work from home doesn’t need to be boring and excruciating, with these ten effective ways to make your work-from-home experience amazing!