Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, almost everyone is working from home. Social distancing and self-isolation measures have encouraged businesses to set up remote work structures for employees capable of doing so. As a result, you’re probably one of the many people working on a project and attending meetings from home.
Although remote work has its benefits, it can also be a challenge, especially to those who are doing it for the first time. As a result, some employees struggle with being productive at home. You could also be one of them.
So what are the best ways to set yourself up for success? Do you need the best WIFI boosters? How can you separate work life from home life? Read on to learn how to be an effective work from home employee.
Get Ready for Work (at Home)
Remote work jokes of employees attending meetings in their pajamas have been circulating the web. Jokes or not, it’s time to break the bad habit of not preparing yourself for work. Whether it’s using your favorite lemon-scented deodorant or wearing full make-up to a meeting, get ready for work as you did pre-pandemic. Doing so will give you a sense of readiness, preparing you to be in work mode.
Create and Stick to a Schedule
Remote work gives you a more fluid structure compared to a traditional office setting. With this flexibility, it’s easier to slack off. Instead of being too relaxed with your new schedule, be more productive by following these tips.
Start your day with a ‘heading-to-work’ routine. Even if your workspace is just a few feet away from the bedroom, shower and get dressed. Do everything that will physically and mentally prepare you for work.
You have to figure out which time of the day allows you to be most productive and alert. This will help you get the most out of your day since you’re finishing your tasks during the most productive time.
A remote schedule is ideally flexible. It should allow time for unforeseen emergencies and obligations. Still, you should stick to what works best for your strengths and needs so you will always stay on top of your deadlines.
Establish Priorities
Without a traditional office’s hierarchical framework, prioritizing tasks and organizing workflows prove to be challenging. Here’s how you can stay on top.
Remote work and managing your own schedule carries with it the risk you’ll be distracted. Recognize factors that cause distraction and come up with ways to manage them. List intrusive tasks, such as reading an article, grocery shopping, watching videos, or even petting your pet. Also, invest in programs or products that will help you stay focused. Ambient noise or white noise players can help improve your focus.
Also, knowing when to stop is just as important as learning when to continue. You’ll never run out of things to do at home. It’s easy to take work home when you’re working from your dining table or living room.
Use the Right Tools
Remote work isn’t just about balancing a laptop on the edge of your coffee table. Make the most out of your setup by having the right tools on your side. Invest in proper lighting and a good chair to protect yourself from muscle strain. Or ask your workplace if you can borrow a chair. Some workplaces provide an allowance for certain office expenses so be sure to ask your boss.
Practice Self-Care
Finally, it’s important to care for yourself while you work from home. Working in solitude can lead you to disregard signals from your body. Prevent burn-out by practicing self-care.
Adjusting to the remote work setup will take some time. But patience and persistence in discipline can help you become one of the best employees – even from home.
