Many people today have embraced the work-from-home formula. Working from home eliminates the need to commute daily, improves flexibility, and increases productivity. When done right, working from home can improve your productivity while still earning plenty of time to spend with your beloved ones and take on a hobby or two. It can also save you lots of money as the price of petrol sky rockets. Scrapping your car could be an idea. Employers, too, benefit when their staff work from home – reduced energy bills, etc.
Like everything else, this working arrangement has its challenges, some of which can take a toll on a person’s productivity. The most common challenges include internet downtimes, lack of motivation, and inability to create a line between work and family time. Proper planning and dedication are thus needed to be successful in working from home. Outlined below are a few tips and pointers on how to work from home effectively.
1. Setup/Create A Dedicated Work Area
The first step here is to identify and set up a dedicated space to use as your workspace. There should be enough space for a complete workspace arrangement with a desk and an ergonomic chair. Consider bringing in décor or plants to make the space livelier. You can make the workspace as comfortable and personalized as you wish.
2. Differentiate Between Work And Family Time/Mode
This is one of the biggest challenges most people face, especially when working from home. Your work and family time needs to be clearly defined to be able to get any work done. While you don’t want to spend the entire day in the home office working (neglecting the family), the two shouldn’t mix. Experts recommend having a specific dress code for work and home.
3. Stay Connected at Work
Working from home doesn’t mean you cannot collaborate with your workmates. Make an effort to stay connected with others via instant messaging services, video, or phone calls whenever possible and necessary. You are better off sharing ideas via chat or call than the official email channel, especially when collaborating on a project. Staying connected also gives you a sense of being part of the organization/company too.
4. Take Advantage Of Video Conferencing
Make an effort to hold meetings and discussions through video conferencing. There are plenty of options, including Facetime, WhatsApp video call, Blue Jeans, and Zoom, among others to choose from. This is especially important if you are a team leader or manager. Video conferencing allows for easier and more effective communication and even stronger relationships. Moreover, having a WhatsApp Business API in place makes business communication professional and seamless.
5. Create A Work Schedule Similar To The Office’s
Unless allowed to work at a time of your choosing, it would be best to have a similar timetable as you had back in the office. This means creating to-do lists and completing tasks in the same 9-5 schedule. You might also want to check in for work at the recommended hours and keep your lunch breaks in sync with office times. Additionally, you can look into different time-tracking tools or Toggl alternatives, which offer you detailed reports on how you spend your time and help you create a work schedule similar to the office’s.
6. Take Proper Breaks
Always take your breaks away from your workspace. Make an effort to step away from the desk when on break and have your lunch in a different room, e.g., in the living room with your family. Keep your mind off work during lunch breaks, and report back promptly.
7. Set Clear Boundaries
Create a clear boundary between work and family time. Most people will sacrifice time meant for working to spend time with their family, only to skimp on assignments late at night. Although you may not have deadlines, it would be best to focus on work first, then spend time with your family after ‘office’ hours. This will help you get into a habit of clearing assignments and projects on time.
8. Look Professional
A professional looking website and online appearance can make all the difference when being productive and getting the most of working from home. Ensure your website, social media and your profile pics and online banners look their best.
9. Be Accountable
Working from home means no one is behind your back barking orders. You thus are responsible for whatever actions you do, hence need to be accountable in your assignments. Don’t start working or fail to because the rest of the team is or isn’t. Self-drive and dedication are a virtue when working from home.
