Remote Working Tips

Right now there are more people working from home than ever before. Working from home was firstly seen as a short-term requirement but for many it is now the norm and will remain so, for months or even years to come.

A recent survey said information technology decision-makers expect permanent remote work to double to 34.4% of their companies’ workforces in 2021, compared with 16.4% before the coronavirus outbreak.

With the number of people permanently working from home expected to continue to increase, are we really prepared for the future of remote work in 2021 and beyond? And what can teams do to better adapt to the virtual workplace in the long-term? If you’re looking ahead into the new year and wondering how to better prepare for remote life in 2021, here’s our remote working tips:

1. Have A Dedicated Work From Home Space

Make sure you have a quiet working area away from distractions where you can keep your focus. Keep your desk decluttered and make sure your chair is comfortable - back pain is not fun!

2. Stick To Your Usual Morning Routine

Sticking to a solid morning routine will set you up for the day ahead. Get up at your usual time, get dressed, eat well and find ways to fill the gap of time that you would have originally spent commuting or getting ready for work. Read a chapter of that book you always wanted to start and never got around to or get a quick workout in which will release endorphins to start your day on the right note.

3. Stay Connected With Your Colleagues

While working from home has its benefits, you may also feel more isolated but there are lots of ways to stay in touch with those who matter – boosting their mental wellbeing as well as our own. It's important to stay in touch with your colleagues and stay connected. Make time to socialise virtually – schedule in a digital coffee break or Friday online get-together.

4. Take Regular Breaks

Similar to how you would in the office, take breaks away from your screen. Go make a cup of coffee, grab a snack or even call a friend or colleague.

5. Stick To Your Schedule

Keep to your normal working hours as that will give you structure. Avoid getting out of bed late, taking more time for lunches than you usually do or putting off tasks that will need to be completed later in the day which will spill into your free time.

6. Be Kind To Yourself

Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that you might not be as productive as you usually would be at the start. Be realistic about what you can achieve given the circumstances, and relax when your work is done.

See also Working from Home: A Guide to Creating a Healthy and Productive Workspace