Tips for Working Remotely from Home
Our world recently changed due to COVID-19
Our normal work routines have changed as well.
Many people are finding themselves quarantined at home, with or without children who require time and attention. This is a new process for some, and you will not only learn to make adjustments, but will learn how much toilet paper you really need! I saw a posting recently that said I used to spin that toilet paper roll like I was on the Wheel of Fortune and now I spin it like I’m cracking a safe!
Telecommuting sounds great, since you don’t have to drive to work or sit in traffic, nor do you have to take time for hair & make-up (if you choose not to). However, there will be adjustments that are needed. The first week is about getting your routine down to a science. I’ve done this for many years, so it wasn’t a big deal for me. However, others are having trouble adjusting. Here are some suggestions:
1) Keep your morning routine as normal as possible
While it sounds great to sleep in and stay in your PJ’s all day, it is actually important to keep the same routine you had for your business day. Since there will be less time commuting, you may be able to get another 30 minutes of sleep, but beyond that, stick to a similar business schedule. Get up, eat breakfast, take a shower, get dressed (even if you are in casual attire), and be in the mind set of work. Routines will help you be more productive.
2) Don’t just roll out of bed and start working
Give yourself time to wake up and get organized for work. Your morning emails can wait until after you have breakfast. Use your calendar to set up calls/projects/tasks that need to be completed each day, so you stay on track. Remember you are still working.
3) Designate a workspace
I’m fortunate enough to have a home office in a separate room with a desk, computer, printer, etc. If you don’t have that available, create space in your home somewhere that is specifically for work. Try not to use your bedroom if at all possible. Find a space where you feel you can be productive. Make certain you have appropriate internet access and space for your work items. Your laptop is portable, so if you need to change location for a private phone call, that’s OK.
4) Stay connected without actually touching someone
Staying connected is important, so check in with colleagues or friends through-out the week. This will help eliminate the feelings of isolation. Services such as Zoom help when collaborating with colleagues or clients on projects or presentations. Multiple people can see the screen simultaneously, helping co-workers stay connected and informed. If necessary, the host can use the Mute function to eliminate some background noise since not everyone understands how distracting noises can be for business meetings. If you are on video type calls, remember to appear in business casual attire and note that everyone on the call will see what is behind you. Also, please be patient with those who are new to the process.
5) Limit distractions that are within your control.
If you have children or animals in your house, they probably won’t understand why you can’t pay attention to them if you are home all day. Set boundaries and explain why you have to be on the computer or phone. Have activities available and get help with child care if possible. Set time limits and allow yourself extra breaks during the day. Get up and stretch and get some fresh air on a regular basis. However, stay away from the TV or Social Media and keep personal matters to a minimum during business hours.
6) Plan activities for children
This is a good time to teach your children about chores around the house. Not all learning takes place in the classroom. Depending on their ages, you can show children how to do laundry (sorting & folding are simple), set the table, empty the dishwasher, vacuum the carpet, dust furniture, sew on a button, write a check, balance a checkbook, fly a kite, ride a bike, walk the dog, write a thank you note, draw a picture, read a book, organize photos, and create handmade cards for the grandmother they can’t visit right now. With Easter on the horizon, let them get creative. We all learned these tasks at some point in our lives, and since we have time at home now, why not spend it learning together. It’s also important to listen to your children and see if they have concerns to share. It may be difficult for them to understand everything going on in our country.
Stay safe and be well informed. This too shall pass!
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Lee Hubert is a Speaker, Facilitator, Trainer and founder of iTrainManagerforSuccess affiliate of Voltage Leadership, with over 20 years of experience in human resources development in healthcare, technology, financial and energy sectors.
