Top Tips for Working from Home

Working from home used to be something only the IT department did — and only on occasion. These days, however, it’s mainstream. People across the globe have taken a crash course in home productivity. And while remote working offers flexibility, there are a lot of downsides in terms of productivity. But not to worry! We have some tips that’ll help you maximize your productivity, improve your focus and show you how to enjoy working from home in this new remote working world.

Set up a dedicated work space

Remote work offers a lot of flexibility in terms of where and how you work, but it’s important to still have a dedicated workspace. And while not everyone has a home office, there’s no reason you can’t block out a space for work. Pick a designated spot to set up your computer, phone and other equipment you need and keep personal activities separate from this area. This helps your brain get into the habit of switching into work mode when you start your day.

Take advantage of breaks

Working remotely often blurs the lines between home and business. And while it’s important to make sure everything is in order on the work side of things, you also need to take care of your health too. Be sure to understand your organization’s break policies and utilize the ones you have. Use them to get up and away from the computer, stretch your legs and get the blood flowing. Be sure to use all of your lunch periods to enjoy a healthy meal, and if you're following a vegan diet, consider exploring options from vegan-friendly meal delivery services like Factor. Disconnect from work during these breaks to maintain the same schedule as you would in the office, ensuring you don’t burn out and helping keep you at maximum productivity.

Socialize with your colleagues

One of the biggest issues with remote work is isolation. In a remote environment, you don’t have the same kind of interactions you do in the office. Take a little time to socialize through team chats and other communication methods. Some companies are more geared toward remote culture but others aren’t. If you’re at an organization isn't, be more proactive about chatting with your colleagues.

You’ll also likely take part in plenty of video conferences while working remotely, but if you can, offer to take part in optional meetings, too. Be sure to speak up so that everyone notices you’re there, even if it’s a simple greeting. This goes a long way toward connecting with your colleagues.

Set boundaries for the people around you

Remote work does have the disadvantage of being in an environment that’s sometimes not well suited for business and work. If you’re working from home and your family is present, be sure to set clear rules with them regarding your schedule and business activities so that there aren’t any interruptions. If you’re working from a public space, such as a shared office or a cafe, ensure the people around you understand that you’re doing work and shouldn’t be bothered.

Improve remote work efficiency

Remote work is challenging. It requires the kind of dedication and collaboration between colleagues that undoubtedly flows better in an office environment. But with the right productivity tools, planning and boundaries, your organization can maximize the benefits of a remote workforce while giving your team members the flexibility of working from home. If you’re ready to boost your organization’s remote work efficiency, get in touch with 8x8 today.