As the coronavirus/COVID-19 continues to spread across the US, many workplaces are asking employees to work from home. While remote working can be incredibly effective and productive, it's also an adjustment for many people. Here are some tips to help adjust to new working habits.
Assuming you have all the logistics of internet speed, computers, monitors, and phones figured out, these tips will help you maximize productivity as you transition to a new working environment.
- Keep Your Schedule
Set your alarm for the same time just like you were going into the office. If you're a morning coffee drinker, get your coffee pot brewing like normal and even put it into your travel mug like you would for your commute. Your brain will recognize these patterns and help you get mentally ready for work to begin. - Get Dressed
You probably don't need to be dressed to your office's dress code as if you were going into work, but take the time to put real clothes on. Comb your hair and brush your teeth. It will help you feel ready to tackle the day and you'll look presentable for meetings when your webcam gets turned on. - Set Up A Dedicated Work Space
Pick a spot that is comfortable, but not the couch. Having a dedicated space to set-up your computer, extra monitors, and spread out some notebook paper and pen will be necessary to mimic an office desk as much as possible. This space means you won't have to put everything away for each meal or be distracted if your family turns on the TV. - Use Technology To Stay Connected
There are tons of resources out there like Zoom, Slack, Glip, Skype, and more, to help you stay connected to your co-workers and team. If your company hasn't set any of these services up yet, recommend one so you don't lose any collaboration with co-workers. Also, nothing beats picking up the phone. Calling can keep you connected to your coworkers. - Don't Forget Your Breaks
It's easy to fall into a trap of working for hours straight. Set an alarm every hour to get up, fill up your water bottle, and move around a bit. Over your lunch break, go for a walk to get active!
We have curated resources from experts to help you stay healthy during the COVID-19/coronavirus outbreak.
Have you worked from home before? What other tips do you have for successfully working from home? Share them in the comments below.
PLUS! Eat healthier with our March Wellness Calendar. You'll get some tips to make easy swaps with your nutrition.
Sources: Time.com, Forbes.com, HubSpot.com
