For some people, remote work is nothing new, but due to the pandemic there are millions of newly remote positions. While it is not clear how long the consequences of the pandemic will last, remote work seems to be a lasting solution and the modern professional should be prepared to telecommute, as this could stay the new normal.
Anyone who has worked from home knows the perks of it, from saved time and commuting costs, a relaxed dress code, to greater flexibility, and more. However, lovely as remote work sounds, there are many individuals who struggle with working from home. Lack of structure and attempting to work in a comfort zone can cause a decrease in production. Another unexpected result is the development of depression in extroverted employees who rely on social stimulation to maintain their normal productive energy.
How to Telecommute Effectively
With most people working from home, it begs the question, how do we become more productive?
An online forum called ask a lawyer had this discussion after research showed a whopping 67% of American lawyers would prefer to continue working from home following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The debate eventually laid out the following tips and tricks to help people find their productive grove while working from home.
1. Establish a Daily Routine
Waking up will trigger your mind into work mode. Consider then taking a shower, getting dressed and reporting to your duties as you usually would at the office. Starting a project first thing in the morning can be the key to gradually making progress throughout the day.
It’s essential to continue working during regular business hours; this will create consistency in your routine and communication with your supervisors, co-workers, and clients.
2. Dress the Part
Many are not expected to wear a suit at home, but getting dressed in proper clothes puts you in the right mindset to be productive. By proper, we refer to the business casual clothes in your closet, which you honestly associate with meetings and checking off to-dos. Getting ready in the morning like you usually would will also keep you prepared to hop on a video chat or take a last-minute meeting at any time.
3. Schedule
Seeing as you manage yourself at home, you need to stay on schedule. This means allocating what you’ll do and when you’ll do it. Having an online calendar creates personal events and reminders that tell you when to shift gears and start on new tasks. Google Calendar is a great example.
Keep it simple. If mornings were for writing, use the same schedule at home. While you probably will get tasks done faster at work than at home, this structure will help keep you focused and productive.
4. Set up a Workspace
Avoid setting up in your room or the couch or spaces associated with leisure time. Situate a desk away from distractions. Using good lighting and some computer peripherals, you can trick your brain into believing its work time when all of your gadgets are connected. For example, connecting your wireless mouse, external keyboard, and monitor lets you know it’s time to get productive.
5. Communicate with Colleagues
It’s essential to figure out how much interaction you need to feel connected and included, and you may need to be more proactive about nurturing relationships.
One of the main ways people socialize when working from home is via business messaging apps like Slack. The only problem is they can provide too much opportunity for socializing, and you would need to avoid getting sucked in when you’re trying to be productive.
Make It Personal
Once you settle into this new routine, you need to realize you have to do whatever it takes to make it sustainable. Setting boundaries, planning, taking necessary breaks every so often, and minimizing distractions will go a long way in setting you up for success in the long haul.
