Working from home isn’t a new concept. However, the coronavirus pandemic did make it popular. Realistically speaking, it’s not just the pandemic. Sure, COVID-19 caused employers to reevaluate how work can be done, but the digital landscape has been changing for years. Almost all office work today is done on computers, and fiber-optic internet is becoming a worldwide norm. Laptops and phones come with cameras and microphones of fantastic clarity, enabling us to communicate and send files on the go. If you have the opportunity, you might want to consider escaping from the office. Here is our guide to transitioning to remote work, which can help you make the most of it.
Where will you work from?
One of the first things you need to think about is where you will be doing the work. Unless your job requires special equipment, you can take your laptop and work from practically anywhere. Upon hearing this, many fantasize about working from tropical beaches and holiday getaways. While this is a possibility – it’s one of those remote work myths that end up being unproductive. Such destinations don’t always offer the best work environment.
The most common locations people choose for remote work are:
⦁ Home - When transitioning to remote work, most people choose to set up a home office. This can be the most practical option since you only need a decent internet connection, and you are good to go.
⦁ Rented office space - For some reason, your home might not be a good fit for an office space. It might be too crowded or noisy. Because of this, some people choose to rent an office space for remote work. You probably don’t need more than a quiet cubicle and internet access, so renting an office doesn’t need to be expensive.
⦁ Working and travelling - This option requires a flexible work schedule and a lot of planning.
⦁ Working from a café - With the corona restrictions easing up, this is becoming a viable option again. Some people like being surrounded by others, and if their work doesn’t require quiet surroundings, coffee shops and other public spaces can be an excellent solution.
Creating a workspace
In 2020 home offices became a trend, so let’s talk about creating the ideal workspace. Sometimes there will be limitations since not everyone has enough room or funds to create something breathtaking. Remember, it’s about making the most of what you have and using that to create a productive environment.
What you should pay attention to when creating a home office:
⦁ Work from a separate room - Ideally, you shouldn’t be working and sleeping in the same room. If you don’t have a spare room, try setting up a work corner. Avoid working from bed and go above and beyond to separate work from your personal life.
⦁ Make it look professional - No one wants to see your dirty dishes or piles of laundry when on a video call with you. Additionally, you will feel more energized and productive in a tidy environment.
⦁ Remove all distractions - Turn off the TV while working and remove all clutter from your desk. Distractions and procrastinating lead you to put in more hours for the same amount of work.
⦁ Have good tools - There are many free apps that can store, compress and share files with your co-workers. Coordinate with your colleagues to find the best solutions that will save time and nerves.
Managing a remote workforce
What if you are a manager who needs to offer guidance for your team transitioning to remote work? If you want to boost your employees while they work from home, you need to keep them motivated and happy. There are many options to choose from, whether it’s data storage, conference calls, or other work-related needs. Use the right tools to solve issues that occur along the way, but don’t overload your employees with apps and meetings. In the end, it all comes down to communication and trust.
Develop healthy habits
If you don’t learn to manage your time and separate work from personal life, transitioning to remote work will feel like hell. Everyone needs a reset button, so do your best to avoid work bleeding into personal time.
⦁ Stick to a schedule - Find one that works for you, and stick to it. Once you are done with work for the day, turn off the computer and really be done with it. Don’t end up working on and off the whole day.
⦁ Exercise - Crawling out of bed directly into your home office and then back to bed can be detrimental to your health. Working from bed is even worse. Make sure to add some physical activity to your routine.
⦁ Eat healthy food - A lot of people tend to snack when they are nervous. When working from home, the fridge is just over there, luring you. Don’t give in to the temptation and stick to healthy meals at regular hours.
Managing your home
Working from home isn’t just about learning to self-supervise. You will need to adopt a different approach toward your home as well.
⦁ Your bills might increase - When working from home, your electricity bill might go up. Since you are always there, you will be heating and cooling the house more often. Know what to expect and how to manage the bills.
⦁ Schedule house chores - It can be tempting to do grocery shopping during your lunch break. However, most people have a hard time multitasking, which can lead to delays on both fronts. Make sure you are saving time and not procrastinating.
⦁ Avoid loneliness - If you are working from home, you need to go the extra mile to engage with other people.
⦁ Dress for work - Working from your pyjamas might sound like a dream come true, but you will quickly get tired of spending all day every day in the same clothes.
Working from home can have many benefits, and when given a choice, many would never return to the office. On the other hand, working and living in the same space can sometimes be hard to balance. Follow the tips from our guide to transitioning to remote work, and you will be fine.
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