Introduction
Remote work is increasing with time. It is no longer debatable whether or not this working method will endure; it undoubtedly will, and thanks to COVID, it is likely to gain popularity. A behind-the-scenes glimpse at what it’s like to work from home reveals that it has benefits with unique difficulties. However, most people enjoy working outside of a corporate workplace once they have a taste of it. Specifically, 97% of employees who have worked remotely say they would suggest it to others (The State of Remote Work 2020 report). But what if you belong to the remaining 3%? As a part of the “remote-first” team, you can maximise your productivity and well-being using the following indispensable remote work guidelines.
What is remote work?
What precisely is remote employment, then? How does it vary from regular office work, and how? It benefits to have a clear definition to gain a better understanding of how to handle remote work in your business:
Any work carried away from an actual office setting is considered remote work. Employees who work remotely have the freedom to complete their tasks from any location, including at home or on the go while remaining productive and connected to their team and workplace. Most people will have to work from home or their preferred coffee establishment. Others, however, have adopted a “digital nomad” existence that involves remote work. As cloud computing becomes more prevalent and communication and collaboration tools get better, more teams are now able to participate in the remote work trend. They are also beginning to enjoy the extra advantages and increased efficiency that remote work offer.
Benefits of remote work
Most people concur that remote work has compelling benefits, despite initial resistance from more conventionally inclined leaders to invest in it as a viable choice for the workforce.
Benefits of remote work include:
1. Heightened interest among employees
2. Increased output
3. Lower rotation
4. A favourable employer image
5. Lower expenses for overhead
6. A larger talent group from which to hire
Employees desire and appreciate the flexibility and independence that come with working remotely. A remote work agreement reduces turnover by an average of 12% because 54% of workers say they would switch jobs for one that gave them more freedom. Additionally, companies gain from happier staff members who are more engaged, productive, and eager to work for the business.
The Three Elements of Intelligent Remote Work
Very few people were prepared for the workplace exodus when it began. If you follow a few shrewd guidelines for remote working, it is becoming simpler to do now that we have learned many hard lessons from remote workers across the globe. The following three categories can be used to break down the guidance on how to consistently perform at your best in remote work:
1. Time-management
2. Communication
3. Healthful routines
10 Tips to Smartly Remote Work
Let’s now examine the top remote work advice for independent contractors and remote managers in these three fields.
1. Create a dedicated work area
Eliminating distractions and boosting efficiency can be achieved by separating your living and working areas. If you work from home, for instance, you might be tempted to watch TV or take a nap rather than finishing your work-related duties. Your brain receives a signal from a dedicated workspace that the time you spend there is solely for work.
If you have a spare bedroom or other designated space in your home, think about establishing an office there. It may be simpler for you to concentrate on finishing daily tasks if you have a dedicated desk or table and chair for work. Additionally, it enables you to disperse and maintain the organisation of your job materials.
2. Follow a schedule
Following a routine can give your day some structure and help you remain focused. Consider making a prioritised list of your daily obligations and an hour-by-hour plan. You could, for instance, make a schedule that specifies the days and times that particular chores should be finished. To let your team members know when you’re available for virtual or telephone meetings, it can also be useful to share this plan with them.
A routine that has your wake-up and bedtimes at roughly the same time each day can also help your body function properly and promote good health. Keeping a schedule can make it simpler to get out of bed and begin work each day. For instance, it might be more difficult for you to wake up early the next day if you choose to sleep in one day and end your shift much later than normal. A regular schedule allows your body to rest and makes sure you’re prepared for new tasks.
3. Take periodic rests
It’s crucial to manage your time wisely and strike an equilibrium between working and relaxing. To keep yourself energised and motivated, build breaks and lunchtimes to your plan. To help you focus, it’s also a good idea to get outside and enjoy some natural sunshine and fresh air. At some point during the day, think about going for a stroll or spending some time in a park or natural setting.
4. Choose your ideal working hours
The time of day that you work best should also be taken into account, and your schedule should be built around that period. Your output may be at its highest in the morning, the afternoon, or the evening. Start your day early and give your top priorities a priority in the morning if that is when you work best. By doing this, you can make sure that your workweek is optimised and that your energy is used effectively.
5. Determine the conclusion of your workday
You can establish boundaries by figuring out when your shift ends. Make it a routine to log off by a certain time to let your colleagues know that you aren’t accessible at all times. Knowing when your workweek is over can motivate you to stop working. The temptation to check your work email while not in the office must be resisted. You can guarantee that you return to work rested and prepared by taking time away from your duties to relax.
6. Talk to your colleagues at work
When remote work, use technology to remain in touch with your colleagues. When you have time, check your email or the messaging system for your company. Use these resources to keep yourself informed while promoting remote collaboration. Despite working in a separate location from your coworkers, communicating with them frequently can promote teamwork. Make careful to plan communication following any different time zones.
7. Take obstacles away
Reduce any distractions like the television or social media to increase productivity throughout your shift. Consider using noise-cancelling headphones, closing the door if you’re working in a room, working away from your home television, or other strategies in addition to having a dedicated workspace. These can improve the overall quality and speed of your job while also assisting you in maintaining focus.
8. Rely on reputable equipment
To perform your work well, you must have dependable technology and a solid internet connection. If you need a laptop or computer, for instance, make sure it has the speed and memory capacity you require to finish your duties. A reliable internet connection guarantees uninterrupted development, and earbuds can help block out background noise.
9. Establish a remote work-life equilibrium
Create a healthy work-life equilibrium to prevent burnout. You can schedule time throughout the day for self-care and taking care of your obligations outside of work in addition to the time you spend working. For instance, it’s crucial to attend doctor’s appointments, family commitments, and other activities in addition to having set job hours. Additionally, engaging in hobbies can offer your body and mind a break.
10. Establish boundaries
Tell your family members or your spouse what kind of environment you prefer when you’re working if you share a place with them. This also holds for the rest of your household. You might, for instance, request that they be silent during particular times of the day.
Conclusion
Above all, determine what suits you the best. Sometimes the solution is obvious, but other times you may need some guidance from other remote employees who are in a similar situation. There is a supportive community out there, whether you can locate them on Twitter or in the Slack channel for your company. Also, keep in mind that you might need to occasionally change up your pattern to prevent it from becoming too…routine. In addition to being a functional workspace, a home office should also showcase your hobbies and personality. We advise making your workplace brighter and more personal while keeping it distraction-free. You can quickly create a lively and welcoming workplace by using our advice while making investments in your remote workspace! Check out these related topics like work from office vs work from home for more information on remote working and some useful advice.
