Top Ten Working from Home Tips

During the last few weeks of working from home during the COVID-19 situation, I have found many ways to be more productive and keep my sanity – here are my top ten:

1 - Schedule your day/week

Its easy to get off-task with at home distractions. Plan your work, work your plan.

2 - Keep a Dedicated Office Space

I’m fortunate to enough to have a second bedroom with my wife in our condo that we use as a home office space. If you do not have the option of a separate room to work in, designate a space in your home for work-only activities. As tempting as it is, do not work from the couch.

3 - Create a Morning Routine

Set an alarm, and get up for work the same way you would if you were going into the office. Carry out your normal morning routine, whatever that may be – shower, eat, fitness, etc.

4 - Dress for Work

As tempting as it may be to wear pajamas, I get dressed for work the same way I would if I was leaving the house. I also wore my signature tie for the first couple days, but was constantly teased by my wife, so I’m taking a break from ties….

5 - Maintain Regular Hours

Maintain clearly defined work hours, and work during these times. Its easy to get side-tracked with household chores/family during the day, treat your home office the same way you would if you were at the office, and focus on your work tasks at hand during work hours.

6 - Schedule Breaks

If its safe and allowed during the COVID-19 situation, get out of your home for a short walk provided you can maintain social distancing. I have been taking the dog for short walks, and doing daily body weight exercises in the park in front of our condo. Getting some fresh air can be really refreshing and a good way to break up your day.

7 - Meal Breaks

Working from home has given me a great opportunity to have meals with my wife. Enjoy the opportunity to spend additional time with your family. Take meal breaks the same way/time you would at the office, and try to eat healthy meals and snacks (easier said than done sometimes!).

8 - Stay in touch with your network (coworkers/clients/partners)

I regularly call or video conference with my team, clients, partners, and coworkers. In a time like this, it is extremely important to stay connected both personally and professionally. Don’t shy away from video conferencing.

9 - Invest in a good pair of Bluetooth headphones

I have never loved my Airpods more. I am spending at least 50% or more of my day on phone calls/in video conference meetings. Not having to deal with cords and microphones is a great way to stay efficient, plus the use of headphones allows you to work without disturbing others in your home.

10 - Become a master at video conferencing programs that are being utilized during this time

I have had to quickly figure out the different video conferencing options. Check out these links I found to be very helpful:

• Zoom: https://www.zdnet.com/article/zoom-101-a-starter-guide-for-beginners-plus-advanced-tips-and-tricks-for-pros/
• Teams: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-teams-blog/how-to-become-a-microsoft-teams-super-user-insider-tips-from-the/ba-p/284811#
• Skype for Business: https://www.uis.edu/informationtechnologyservices/wp-content/uploads/sites/106/2013/04/Skype-for-Business-and-Introduction1.pdf

Also, look for training/self improvement opportunities both personally and professionally. Being stuck at home is a great reason to read that book you have been meaning to read or take that online course. Many organizations/educators are providing free or greatly reduced courses on-line right now.