If you are like many of today’s professionals, you are considering or in the process of transitioning to remote work.
However, you may not be prepared to work from home because it takes more than the best Teams virtual backgrounds to effectively work remotely. Therefore, these are six steps to smooth your transition.
Creating Your Own Space
Before you begin working remotely, you need a designated workspace where you can store your supplies, spread out your work and create a peaceful atmosphere, but not where you typically relax, such as your bed or living room sofa.
If you do not have space in your home to set up a designated office, you may want to investigate coworking spaces.
Blocking Off Time at Home
You also need to clearly define your work hours. Because you are at home, it can be easy to slide into working or extend your work hours.
You may think something will only take a minute and, then, find yourself working late into the night or starting early in the morning.
Set aside specific hours when you are available for work. Then, block off the time that you plan to be “at home.” Build an after-work routine to help you transition.
Also, schedule time to leave your home so you don’t develop cabin fever. Time with your family, relaxing or doing other activities is important for your mental and physical health.
Prioritize Your To-Do Lists
As you work from home, you may find that you are distracted by the quick things you can do.
For example, you may think you can quickly place a load of laundry in the washer right before you get on your meeting. These little things can take big chunks out of your workday.
Therefore, create a to-do list for work and home. Then, prioritize each list. Focus on one list at a time.
Complete your to-do list while you are “at work,” and start on your home list during off-work hours. You should find your productivity and focus much improved as you create and focus on these lists.
Pursue Open Communication
You will find that communication is more necessary when you work remotely. Outside the office, it is more difficult to get answers to your questions or direction on projects. You may also find it difficult to collaborate on projects.
Start with adopting communication tools, such as video conferencing software with a Zoom background with company logo. Add instant messaging and software that allows you to share documents with your coworkers.
Connect With Your Coworkers Regularly
When you work outside the office, you can feel disconnected from the company, your supervisor and your team.
Therefore, make plans to spend time outside of work with your coworkers. If you are far apart geographically, schedule online meetups.
Listen to Your Body
You have more opportunities to pay attention to your body when you are at home. Watch for signs that you need to adjust your workspace to make it more ergonomic.
Be aware of your body’s need to take breaks, get up and move. As you prepare yourself and your space for remote work, don’t forget the benefits of consistency, such as a custom Zoom background with logo and building a work routine.
