Working remotely is becoming a lot more popular in many industries. Companies are learning that their employees can often be even more productive and happy with their work while they’re at home. They can be in their own environment and save time on the commute.
Are you giving remote work a shot? Here are some ways to make the most out of the experience while making it work for you:
Have a designated workspace
Having a space in your home or apartment where you spend all your time working is a great way to stay focused. This doesn’t have to be a complete office — even a corner will suffice.
Get a nice desk and a chair that won’t hurt your back. Surround your workspace with little touches that make you feel as if you’re in a homey office. For example, get some plants and colorful prints for the walls. This is a space in your home as well, which means you have even more incentive to make it look just how you want it.
Invest in work gadgets
Having the technology to support your remote work will make your job even easier than being in an office. If you’re on the phone a lot, then you could benefit from Hi Boost cellular signal boosting. You’ll be able to have clear calls with clients and other employees without the fear of losing your connection.
The same strategy should be applied to Wi-Fi. Splurge on the more expensive package since you will most likely need it! You don’t want to have a slow connection (or a lost connection) in a video conference.
Then, invest in some nice headphones with a good microphone so you can be on the computer and talking at the same time. This is a miniscule investment that will lessen your stress and improve your sound quality, making you look more professional.
Make a schedule for yourself
When looking into an at-home working environment, map out a schedule for yourself. If you’re someone whose day-to-day activities often switch around, then make a new schedule every morning. If you like to have a set schedule every day, this can easily be done when working remotely.
Using software like Google Calendars is smart because you can schedule anything you want for yourself and block out specific times. Plus, Google can also send you reminders. If you are an avid planner, you can plan out every minute of your day, including coffee breaks.
Remote work is flexible enough that you can orchestrate your schedule in a way where you get your work done at the most opportune times for you. Many employers who have remote employees understand that people are better off working when they are better able to focus and do their best job, whether that’s at 8am or 10pm.
Keep communications open with coworkers
Working remote doesn’t have to mean less communication. Whatever channel you use to speak with people you work with, use it as much as you can. This will help you all stay on the same page and feel more connected as a team.
Something you miss out on when working remote is face-to-face human interaction, but the internet makes it much easier to communicate with people. Make a Facebook group where you can post funny jokes about your work while you’re on break. Do what you can to have a clear and lighthearted dialogue with your coworkers.
Take breaks strategically
Lastly, everyone needs breaks. Working from home lets you take them whenever you want without feeling like a weirdo. Does yoga relax you and help you focus? Then take a 15 minute yoga break every two hours.