Have you had to make the sudden transition from working in the office to working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic? It may have already been several months (who’s counting?), but maybe you’re now feeling unproductive and in a slump.

As we make our way toward the end of 2020, we don’t know how things will look like once 2021 arrives. Many organizations may choose to continue remote work. Whether you just started working from home for the first time, or you’ve been working remotely for several months already, you know that it may have its challenges. You don’t get the same sense of camaraderie with your coworkers since you’re at home. This article is here to help be your most productive while working remotely. Keep reading for 5 tips to making working from home a success. 

1. Dedicate a Workspace

When you step into the office, you get into the mindset for work. It can be hard to maintain that momentum when you’re at home since your routine looks different now. One way to keep that mindset is to dedicate a space for your work. It doesn’t have to be a full office room, especially if you don’t have the space for it. It can be another room, a guest room, or even part of a room. As long as it’s a place that’s quiet and where you can set up your work area. For example, the couch in front of the TV may not be the best set up, because you’ll be tempted to turn on the TV and lose focus. 

2. Get Rid of Distractions

Distractions are always going to be there. Whether it’s message notifications, email, or other people living in your home. One thing you can do before the start of your work day is to write out a list of what you need to get done that day. You can write it on your phone, on your planner, or even on a sticky note and stick on your computer. The key is to have it where you can see it, so that once you lose focus, you’re reminded of what’s your next task.

If you have an office room, you can have everyone know that you’re at “work” during certain hours of the day. Another tip is to set aside certain times of the day where you can check your phone for notifications and respond to them instead of constantly checking your phone. 

3. Have the Right Equipment

Of the equipment you’ll require for working from home, the most basic would be internet connection, a laptop or desktop computer, a working microphone and camera for video calls, and of course a space to work in. It can get frustrating when you’re trying to connect to a video meeting and either your mic is not working or your connection is weak and the video is lagging. You also might want to set up a business telephone number if you’re on the phone a lot for work.

4. Be Prepared 

Another tip is to be prepared before an important video call or meeting. You don’t want to have to navigate the learning curve of a new video call platform a few minutes into a meeting. Before the meeting, log into the new software and test the tools and features so that you’re familiar with them. 

5. Choose the Right Communication Method

Avoid the long back and forth email chain for a project. Sometimes, it’s easier and quicker to send a message through your work messaging platform. Or, you can call your team member and discuss the project, then you can send a short follow up email to confirm details. 

Other times, it’s preferable to send an email, for example when following up after a meeting. Open communication with your team members is key. You can collaborate through online collaboration software that makes status updates and messaging easier. You should also have regular check-ins throughout the week. 

Some organizations have virtual “coffee chats” before the start of the workday or virtual lunches. This is a great way to have some social interactions and connect with your coworkers. 

Finals Thoughts On Making Remote Work a Success

Remote work has quickly become the new normal these days. With the above tips, you can make your home a productive, successful working environment.