- Dedicate a Workspace
Designate a specific area in your house for work. This will make it easier to stay focused and separate your work life from your home life. Find a spot that offers as much privacy as possible.
- Create a Comfortable Environment
The right equipment goes a long way. This includes having a computer that meets your needs, a desk, an ergonomic chair, office supplies, and plenty of light. Make your workspace as comfortable as possible.
- Set Clear Boundaries
If you want to maintain maximum productivity, you need to be able to work without distractions. This can be difficult for remote workers. If you have family or friends in close quarters, they need to know the times when you can’t be disturbed.
- Keep a Consistent Routine
Humans thrive on structure. For most people, the morning is the best time to work, so try to wake up at the same time every day and get difficult tasks completed early. Find a routine that works for you and stick to it.
- Stay Connected with Colleagues
Tools like Skype, Slack, and Zoom will help you stay connected and fight feelings of isolation. Maintaining connections while working from home enhances team unity and productivity.
- Take Breaks
It’s easy to lose track of time when working remotely. Taking breaks will help you feel refreshed and ready to tackle your to-do list. Make sure to step away from the computer occasionally. Consider using the Pomodoro Technique. It’s a time management method that helps you set up scheduled breaks throughout the day and can be used for any task. Breaking up the day and moving around increases your productivity when you return to work.
- Let Managers and Colleagues Know Your Availability
The more guidance you provide, the fewer misunderstandings will occur, and the more you and your team can stay on track. This is even more critical if your team works in different time zones. Use tools like Google Calendar or Slack to communicate to your team when you’ll be online and offline.
- Share Your Progress
Remote workers need to be proactive and consistently share their project progress with colleagues and managers. Project management tools and email can help you share your progress daily and keep others informed.
- Be Responsive
Promptly return emails, calls, and voice mails. People can be more time aware when working remotely. Communicate expectations and timelines for replies.
- Ask for Feedback
Make sure to ask colleagues and managers for feedback on your remote working situation. Communicate and adjust as necessary.
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