So, you have landed a job, and your employer wants you to work remotely, or your organization adopted the remote work policy, congratulations. However, you are consigned about productivity, and how you can optimize your work. Well, it’s a nice consign, considering that remote work policy is new to some. To find out how you can increase your productivity while working from home, keep reading as we have outlined some tips that will help you achieve your goals.
Check if your company has some remote work policies, procedures, and expectations. Read them, know what is expected of you and follow the guidelines.
- Maintain regular hours and take scheduled breaks.
One of the major problems with remote work is, you will find yourself working anytime and anywhere. This will drain you, and get you focus less on other important things. Set a schedule, and stick to it…most of the time. Having clear guidelines for when to work and when to call it a day will help you maintain work-life balance. One of the benefits of remote work is flexibility. Sometimes you need to extend your day or start early to accommodate other activities. When you do, be sure to close up earlier than usual or sleep in a bit the next morning to make up for it.
Also, remember too take scheduled breaks from work. Come to think of it, if you were in the office, won’t you take a break?
- Consider your workspace And Set boundaries with your family
While working remotely, you will be tempted to work from any point in your home. The best practice is to set up your remote workplace in a place where you can focus on the tasks at hand. You can find a coworking space near you. The idea is to make sure that you feel motivated by your environment and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Also, make it very clear to your family that work has to be done – at a flexible level, of course. Let them know that you will need quiet time to get work done.
- Be sure to always to ask for what you need
Remote working requires a lot. From data subscriptions, to software, to equipments etc. Organizations that are accustomed to remote employees often have a budget for home office equipment. Find out everything you need , and also find out your company’s policies regarding them. Sometimes, they will be bought for you, and they will remain the company’s properties. Other times, the purchase price will be deducted from your salary, and they will become your properties. Either way, be sure to ask for what you need.
- Show up to meetings
Periodically, as the need arises, you will be required to show up in video conference meetings. Be sure to attend them. Most times, memos for these meetings will be sent prior, you can make researches and equip yourself, so you can make meaningful contributions.
- Look for training opportunities
When you’re not in an office with your fellow employees, you might miss out on training and skills development courses that are taught in person. Your company might not have plans for online courses, so you might be missing out on an opportunity to learn something useful. Request online or in-person courses, training, and coaching if you need it, from your company. You can also take these courses yourself, free or paid, as they are for your own growth.
- Finish the tougher tasks first
When you have a list of tasks to perform, finish the tougher ones first. Here is why. Finishing the tough tasks feel productive enough. Also, when the tough tasks are performed first, the easier ones will be walk overs. You will find out that you list of activities for that day is done earlier than you expect.
- Get dressed for work
By dressing every day, you will undoubtedly feel more professional. That professional mindset will show up in your day-to-day work. Shower, shave, and clean yourself up every day with a nice outfit while you work and keep the casual wears for the weekend.
- Eat healthy
Eat healthy meals to remain healthy as you work from home. You will be tempted to always eat junks as you work. You have to resist this temptation and cook yourself healthy meals with plenty of proteins and vegetables to get the energy to get through the day.
- Exercise Often
Get outside for a walk or a jog. If yiu have the space, you can also perform physical activities in the house. Physical activity is incredibly important in a work-from-home environment and a very important remote working tip.
Remember that while working remotely, life will look a little bit different, and a little more awesome. You will be in control of your time. If you take into consideration the above tips, you will enjoy working remotely even more.
My name is Chigozie Japhet. I am a content writer, and a brand strategist. I like writing, reading, researching and watching football, especially my team, Man United. i believe in working hard, and also in relaxation as all work without play, makes Chigozie a dull boy.
