For those of you new to remote work
Shelley Sandiford, PhD
I Help Experts in Science and Tech Explain Concepts, Spread Messages and Get Results By Creating Targeted Animations.
I get it.
Keeping work and life separate becomes infinitely more difficult when your office is right next to your bedroom and the temptation to binge Netflix trumps your desire to finish that report your boss is waiting for. Having those two worlds bleed into each other is a big reason why working remotely can be challenging...and a big reason why some employers are opposed to it.
And, after working 100% virtually for the past six years, I’ve learned mainly two things.
Just two.
They are simple but not easy. But, if you can get a handle on these, and you’ll transition far more easily than if you don’t.
1. Have a designated work area...and stick to it.
Understand that your home office isn’t for streaming movies, and that you don’t write emails or take calls sitting up in bed, and you’re on your way.
This means having an area that you use only for work if possible. It means having a computer and reliable internet connection. It means having some privacy when conducting meetings by phone or zoom.
And, (this is important), it means having an area you can walk away from and shut the door on at the end of the work day.
2. Have a routine...and stick to it.
From 9 to 5, you’re working.
Get up at your regular time.
Make the bed when you get up.
Eat breakfast.
Shower and change. I cannot stress this enough. It’s amazing how much more seriously you’ll take yourself if you don’t take phone calls in your pajamas.
Put coffee on or make tea.
Start working.
Try to keep as close to a regular 9-5 schedule if you can. Take breaks as usual - including lunch and scheduled breaks at your regular times.
That’s it really. Just those two things.
Designated spaces and routines.
How’s your #remotework going?
Have any favorite tips for maintaining productivity in these strange times?
Let me know!
#remotework #socialdistancing
Regulatory Affairs Project Manager
4 年Surprisingly #remotework is going well. I have adopted some of what you speak to and am actually far more productive. I think there are so many IT tools and for the first time I am learning to use them efficiently.
HR Programs & Digital Solutions
4 年I think you nailed it Shelley. I think it's an extra challenge when there are small humans around or if one doesn't have an separate area to designate; however, these two key practices will go a long way in making it thru this new time that we find ourselves in.