How to get the most out of working from home
Adjusting to working from home can be tricky for many as remote working becomes the new norm. Whether you have been working from home for a few days or have just started, we want you to get the best out working remotely, and developed some top tips to keep you as productive as possible whilst you work in a home environment.
- Set up an office you have to get too and not one you have to wake too
As simple as this sounds, try to create an office space that you must walk to get too and not wake up too. Studies have suggested that If you can create a working space away from your personal space, you can increase performance and avoid key distractions. Make sure that you have enough space to sit comfortably and work from your PC/laptop. This space is one that you should easily access as well as pack up which brings me on to my next point.
- Balancing act
Once you have finished for the day shut down. Often workers will work overtime as a result of working from home and find it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance as the two are now merged onto one. Make sure that you separate your work from your everyday life and maintain healthy work/life balances.
- It’s all bout routine
Routine is key and you should be implementing it when you are working from home. Set allocated times for lunch breaks as well as short breaks to move around for 5 minutes, even if it’s a walk to another room and back. One of the best ways to avoid cabin fever is to make sure that you are giving your mind a break. Take a walk outside for 10 minutes if the weather permits you to do so, it will do wonders when you get back to your workstation.
- Check-in with your team
It can get lonely out there without your work team around you so make sure you check in with them. This can be on a Slack channel or a WhatsApp group, its always good to make sure that you are interacting with your team no matter how remote you all may be.
- What about the kids?
When faced with working from its usually working around the kids and not the kids working around you. Entertaining children whilst keeping your daily work priorities in line can be difficult and stressful to manage. Set weekly agendas for you and your children to follow. Routine will allow them to get back into the habit of following a schedule that they would have done during the school day, so they can keep up to date with their schoolwork. Keep in constant communication with your manager if you must go offline to pick up or drop off children – they will understand as these are trying times and flexibility is paramount. Many wonderful activity sites can keep your children distracted and educate them at the same time. Always set some fun time for the t learn a new skill like coding – there are several apps you can download for any age.
- Connection is key
Always ensure that you have a reliable connection, without one there is little you can do. Ensure that during work hours there is little demand needed on the WIFI. Pre-download films for the children or any other activities that would require bandwidth.
- Take care of your self
Taking care of yourself is essential and means not only looking after your physical wellbeing but also your mental wellbeing too. These are trying times so speak to your team and manager if you or a family member/housemate has fallen ill. Make sure that you are maintaining healthy habits and that you are engaging with others virtually. There are also several online groups you could join to help give you additional support should you require it.
Looking to start a new role from home? Have a look at the remote roles we have on offer.
