Making the most of working from home

We as employees love flexibility; we as humans love flexibility. One question that I get asked the most when discussing potential opportunities with candidates is whether there is any flexible working or working from home options. Even just one day a week makes all the difference. 

Now, many of us are finding ourselves working from home, whether you love it and thrive when you are working from home, or whether you find yourself easily distracted and just want to be in the office, it can be a tough time. 

There have also been lots of articles and advice appearing about how to make the most out of working from home and so I have pulled together the tips that I love most (and will be following myself over the coming weeks). It is difficult to say how long people will be working from home for, so it is important to get into healthy habits from the start to make sure you are having the most productive days, but also feel like you are well supported. 

 Set up your workspace 

It is all too easy to grab your laptop and sit on the sofa or on your bed but if you find a nice area where you can set up a small office space then this will help you to feel more settled and productive. All some of us need is our laptops, phones and a notebook, which is great, but make sure you are sitting somewhere comfortable and make it a habit. Sitting near a window can really help! 

Get out of your PJs!

We have all been there! Maybe we have logged on from home after work and sat in our cosy PJ’s and done some work. It will be a novelty at first but there is nothing better than getting yourself dressed for the day, just as if you were going into the office. This will help create a balance between ‘work time’ and ‘off-time’. I also think this will make you feel better and more productive. However, I would always say yes to working in slippers. The slippers can stay! 

Keep in touch with work 

Times are uncertain and it is important now, more than ever, to keep united. I am so lucky with just how incredible my employers and team are. We are a close team who bounce ideas off each other and help one another to problem-solve. In a world that is so digitally advanced, there is no reason why you can’t keep checking in with your colleagues. In the office this week we had a play with Google Hangouts, and it is brilliant! Also make use of Skype, conference calls, FaceTime or even WhatsApp videocall. Get creative and keep that positive buzz even though you are not physically together. 

Get outside (if you are not self-isolating)

Where safe to do so, make sure that you take a step outside and get some fresh air. Whether that is a walk on your lunch break or an evening run, getting fresh air is incredibly important for our mental health and we need to make it a priority. 

Maintain a routine 

Keeping a routine is important when you are working from home and especially as everyone may be feeling unsettled and worried about what lies ahead. Make a plan and stick to it. If you normally get a coffee on your way into work, make one at home, if you pop out on your lunch break then make sure you still have those breaks. 

Most importantly of all, keep talking, whether that is to your boss, your colleagues, clients or customers. Keep in touch with family and friends to avoid feeling alone, lonely or isolated.

Keep safe, this soon will pass.