How to successfully transition into working remotely

I’m not going to say the c-word but it’s clear we’re living in uncertain times. It’s also clear that the majority of us are facing more time at home, including the very real possibility of working from home for the many people who typically go into the office each day and can work remotely. 

With our all-consuming 24/7 news cycle, it’s very easy to focus on what we can’t control. Although positives may be difficult to find at the moment, opportunity always presents itself side-by-side with challenge. For leaders who have been slow on the uptake of flexible working, the next few months will provide a good test case as to whether remote working is possible for their business model.

As someone who’s worked from home consistently for five years now, many of my friends are asking me for tips about how to transition from working in the office to in their home (a co-working space kind of defeats the purpose at the moment). Here are my top tips:

Utilise technology to enhance effective communication

Sure, you may be unable to have face-to-face meetings but there’s nothing stopping your team from utilising tools like Zoom and Slack. Going from an office surrounded by people to a room with a laptop and internet connection, can feel isolating but it doesn’t have to be. Clear communication is key and assumption is your worst enemy. Pick up the phone and reach out to people as needed.

Tailor your office to your needs

Nothing is more stressful than not having access to the equipment you need. A reliable laptop and internet connection instantly springs to mind, alongside a quiet room where you can have conversations with people as needed. Make a list of what you need to perform your best and set yourself up for success.

Set and enforce your boundaries

When you work from home, it’s so easy to work literally 24/7, which in the long-term, will only lead to burnout. Set your hours from the onset, test how they work in practice and after a couple of weeks, adjust them accordingly. Do your very best to physically move away from your computer or laptop and take your full lunch break. Remember: most of us aren’t working in emergency services so the world will continue turning if you return an email or text message the following morning.

Join online communities

If you’re struggling with the social aspect of not being in the office, there are lots of online communities that offer support and people to chat with who may be in a similar situation. Personally, I have found Facebook groups to be the best way to connect with other business owners but there are other ways to connect with people as well.

Embrace the positives that come with working remotely

When I worked in an office, I spent three hours each day commuting. The thought of doing that now seems insane to me. Instead of spending three hours a day sitting on a tram, I use that time to go for a morning and evening walk and am so grateful for this relaxation time. Another great perk is having the ability to grab any food or drink I want at anytime, without having to spend a decent amount of money each day or go on a hunt for what I like. There’s good in every situation, if you’re struggling, you just have to look a little harder.

Personally, I know working from home makes me a more productive worker and to be honest, a better person to work with. I’m not setting my alarm at 5am to make it into the office by 9am. I don’t feel isolated. I feel like I have everything I need at my fingertips.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and comments on remote working. Feel free to share them below. Reach me via my website.