With the global health concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic many companies are asking their staff to work from home. For many people this can take some getting used to as they are unaccustomed to this work mode and need to get into a new routine.
One of the great things about working from home is that you don’t spend time travelling to and from your workplace and you get to spend more time with your family. On the other hand it can be quite challenging for some people as they may feel lonely and find it difficult to stay connected with their colleagues. And of course being in the home environment means there are a lot of opportunities for distractions which can seriously affect your productivity.
Working from home can be quite a transition if you are not used to it. But it does have its advantages, so here are some tips to help you work with as few distractions as possible and help you continue working like a professional:
- Go through your morning routine as you would as if you were going to work. Have your breakfast and get dressed. Remember that you may be communicating with colleagues or clients using Skype or other communication software so you need to look and feel professional.
- Try and stick to the breaks that you would normally have in the office. Take your coffee break and lunch break and try to adhere to office working times because your clients will expect you to be available at the times they are used to communicating with you.
- Make sure that everyone knows you are available many of your clients may assume that because your company is closed you are not available. If your company has not informed your clients about the change in working practice then message your clients yourself to let them know that you are there for them.
- Take a little bit of exercise. Take a walk around the house, have a good stretch or even do a little work out. Do try to avoid sitting in front of your workstation for long periods without having regular pauses. This will not only keep your mind fresh but will also stave off tiredness.
- Try to eliminate as many distractions as possible. At best find an area where you are alone and have privacy and separation. Sometimes even working behind a screen or a curtain can give you the opportunity to focus on your work without distraction.
- Set up your notifications so that you’re not tempted to continually check your social media and messaging apps. Ideally, allot yourself specific times of the day where you can check for messaging and look at your social media. This more than anything else can help sustain your productivity.
- Many people thrive on having personal contact with their colleagues so it is helpful to begin the day with a team check in and then during the day you can talk or chat with your colleagues either as a group or even one-on-one. This helps to keep you connected with your team and helps avoid isolation and loneliness.
Once you get into your new home working routine you will find it becomes much easier to concentrate and actually do the work you need to do. Whatever your circumstances, your colleagues and many people in your position are going through the same transition, so don’t worry about the odd setback, the dog barking while you are conferencing or your mobile ringing.
Do your best and be the best.
WE BRING YOUR
DIGITAL ASPIRATIONS
TO LIFE!
