Working remotely is not new, but with each passing day, more and more companies are resorting to increasing their number of remote workers for different reasons. To date, reports have shown that a lot of companies have increased their production time as workers save time on commuting to and from work. Also, they have input a lot less for resources as most workers have their tools and equipment at home. It can be classified as a heightened level of freedom, but if you are not careful, it could turn out to haunt you. Effective management from both angles (employer and employee) is needed to have efficient results. If you are chosen to work from home, here are a few considerations you need to focus on…
Have a Set Workstation
Before you can work from home to achieve the results the company is looking for, the need for a home office is needed. Of course, you may not have direct space, but you must be able to get creative. Utilizing a multi-purpose table in the home, relocating a few items to make space for your computer, and books, among other measures, might be needed. So, an empty room, a portion of the garage, a closet, or space under the stairs could be transformed into a home office. Also, your work station must be set up in an area clear of the kids and all levels of distraction (keep away from the living room!).
Get Reliable Resources and Technology
When you are setting up your home office, there will have to be some level of investment to get all the tools and equipment you need. The investment will come in as you get reliable resources and technological devices that will help you to work more effectively. So, getting a better laptop (with added specifications) or a tablet/phone may have to be considered. Is your router a little on the old side? Well, getting a new one to reduce the levels of system issues would be ideal.
Set Efficient Work Hours
This is important as the belief that you are home will get the job done before you know it. This does not work, and the proof has come in from thousands of experienced work-from-home persons. But, the advantage is that you can be flexible with setting up your time and that which works best for you. One of the best ways you can do this is by making breakfast, snacks, and lunch in one go so you won’t have to take a break in between busy periods to satisfy calls from the kids. Also, it is essential to communicate these times with your team (co-workers, supervisors, etc.). This tactic will also be critical to help reduce the levels of “work creeping” from bosses and supervisors who pop in now and again. Note, your personal space (home) may be a haven for your head of departments to invade periodically.
Exercise and Snack Healthily
You don’t want to sit at the desk all day, as this will not only affect you in the long term but also make you less productive after a while. Getting minor exercises like a stretch or a walk for a breath of fresh air, will do your body justice. Also, you will need to have a few energy snacks on hand to munch on so you don’t drain your total energy. But, ensure it is only snacks and not your lunch as you ought to eat elsewhere so your meal and eating will be balanced.
Working from home is slowly becoming a norm for most companies across various industries, and the best way to combat and be successful is to implement the right techniques.