Top Work From Home Tips
With almost everyone that previously worked in an office now living the work from home life, there is a pretty big switch in your daily routine. But for a lot of us (me included) - this is our everyday and we’ve found ways to be rather productive.
#1 - You have more hours, but don’t insist on using them all.
Most people that switch to working from home will immediately realize that the hour or longer spent commuting everyday is now available for working. While yes this is very true, only use it on occasion. You will get burnt out.
Find ways to spend this extra time to do things that better yourself: workout, spend time outside, read, etc.
It doesn’t help anyone if you’re working a ton more hours but being quite a bit less productive.
#2 - Move around.
Hopefully you had a desk - which is great spot to maybe have an extra monitor and some extra space. But you probably also have a couch, comfy chair, kitchen/dining room table, etc.
I find I’m far more productive to switch between different locations in my house throughout the day. It helps clear you mind, refocus, and accomplish more.
And it’s also helpful to not sit stagnant for 8+ hours straight….
#3 - Use software to make remote collaboration easier.
If you aren’t using Zoom already, you should be. It’s the best when it comes to video conferencing and screen sharing. The free version is also rather impressive, you’re just limited to under 45-minute meetings if you have more than 2 people.
CloudApp for screenshots, video recordings, GIFs, etc. It transforms the messages you send to your team from a whole bunch of text, to an engaging experience.
#4 - Improve your communication.
It’s not uncommon to be working on a bunch of different projects with a variety of different people and communication can quickly become a problem. Find a way to make it very easy for everyone involved to understand the current status.
If you’re using a project management tool that great, but be sure to keep it up to date.
One of the easiest ways I’ve found to coordinate on different tasks is rather simple -> put it into separate emails.
No need to dig into reply #37 in that email series to find what you need to do next. Split it out, CC everyone important, then have everyone work from there. You spend so much time in email everyday, use it to help you do better work.
The transition to working from home may be daunting at first, but you’ll quickly find you can get more work done and avoid the hassle of commuting. Plus there is the added benefit you’re always available for your family if needed.
It’s going to be an interesting year to see how companies that were forced into a WFH situation due to COVID-19 realize the benefit to the business and start to create a more flexible policy moving forward.
Any tips you have for working from home? Share them below in the comments.
