Due to the virus that shall not be named, there has been a substantial influx in the number of people working from home (WFH). Grappling with the new normal for those of us who have had to make the sudden transition to WFH has been well, interesting, to say the least… From awkward and hilarious conference call encounters to questionable makeshift desk setups, working from home has presented all sorts of new challenges. Not to mention, having a bunch of new coworkers (your kids, partners, roommates and pets) that you now have to work alongside. It can be hard to stay productive and professional when Karen from accounts (your partner) hasn’t washed the dishes and Joe and Sandra from HR (your kids) are nagging at you to make lunch.
In all seriousness, while the idea of working from home can sound shiny and alluring, it’s not exactly working from your couch in pyjamas. There are some definite perks, but for those who are new to working remotely, it can be challenging. How do we stay on task when our washing machine is beeping and Instagram is just a mere click away?
If you’re new to working remotely, we have put together some tips and tricks to help you stay as productive (and sane) as possible.
Don’t work in your pyjamas
The number one key to productivity when working from home is to—as much as possible—create the headspace that you are heading into the office. Even though it isn’t business as usual, get up at a regular time, get dressed in usual work clothes and follow your normal morning routine. If you need, try to establish a new habit like going for a walk around the block, making a coffee/tea or lighting a candle at your desk to signify the start of your day. The goal is to create a consistent morning routine that can act as a physical switch and get you into work mode.
Set up for success
Your physical workspace also plays an important role in your productivity. Yes, that means working from your bed or couch is probably not the best idea. Create a clear workspace that allows you to clearly distinguish between work time and home time. If you have the luxury of a separate office or a spare room that’s ideal. If you have a door, close it. However, if you are working from your dining room that’s okay too, just make sure to keep it decluttered and pack up your work things at the end of each day.
With this shift to WFH happening so quickly and unexpectedly for many companies, lots of people don’t actually have what they need in order to get their usual work done. Make sure you aren’t starting on the back foot and try to maximise your setup as much as possible. It’s recommended that you have a computer, high-speed internet, a desk and comfortable ergonomic chair. A separate monitor, keyboard and mouse are also recommended.
The importance of boundaries
When work is now at home and home is now at work, things can get blurry and out of balance if you aren’t careful. Just because you can ‘quickly’ finish off that one last thing after dinner, it doesn’t mean that you should. It’s important to set clear boundaries for both home and work. During work hours minimise distractions and signal to those around you that you need to be left alone. On the flip side, once you’ve clocked off for the day resist the temptation of answering your email notifications and have some well deserved you time.
Work in short bursts and take breaks
Another tool to help boost productivity is to build structure into your day. Start off your day by establishing a small and focused to-do list. Work in manageable chunks and take regular breaks to get up and move. Make sure to also take a proper lunch break rather than snacking your way through your pantry throughout the day. This way you can have a real meal and step away from your desk.
Working from home can also provide a great opportunity to reexamine your own working style. What time of the day do you work best? We no longer have to commute, meaning we have some extra time on our hands—pay attention to how you are using it. If you work best in the morning, use mornings to tackle your most important, pressing or difficult tasks.
Stay connected
Last but not least, while we are all further apart it’s important to stay connected. It’s easy to forget how many little chats we used to have around the workplace, whether it be about our latest project or what we had for dinner the night before. Don’t lose this. During this time it’s important to be even more upfront than normal with what you are working on. If in doubt, over communicate. Try to meet regularly to review tasks, discuss blockers, plan and find solutions. Of course, don’t also forget to check-in with each other on a more general note too. Asking “how was your weekend” can help keep a sense of normality and connection.
At the end of the day, we are all in this together. If you are feeling frustrated by the influx of Zoom meetings and technology glitches, chances are that your co-workers are too. Take a deep breath, tackle things one day at a time and remember that you aren’t alone.
If you are looking for the best talent, you can get in touch with us here. If you are looking for a great career check out our job listings here.
Comment