Working remotely? Tips from The Source & Recruit Co. on How to Crush It

Some of us are “office people” who enjoy water cooler chats and open-door policies. On the contrary, a 2019 Zapier report suggests that 95% of knowledge workers – defined as those who primarily work with a computer in professional settings – want to work remotely. Regardless of preference, an unprecedented level of uncertainty brought on by the rapidly evolving #coronavirus pandemic is prompting companies across the globe to initiate mandatory work-from-home policies. Coronavirus is putting remote work to test for some of the world’s largest workforces – and for managers who traditionally fear a dent in productivity with remote work. 

Yoga pants. Dog kisses. Personal playlists on repeat. Reduced carbon footprint. I normally work from home, and these things never get old. That said, I’m also an extrovert who values teamwork and building trusted partnerships with colleagues. I want to make a meaningful and productive impact for my clients, and value the ability to contribute. 

So, can I enjoy the perks of remote work AND be productive? The answer is yes. Absolutely. Here are a few basic tips for WFH newbies, and those de facto testing out the coveted remote workday. 

1. Routine: keep it, or build one! Before you ever start working, shower, brush your teeth, have coffee, get dressed – whatever you normally do before you head out the door, keep doing it! You’ll feel more refreshed and ready to tackle your inbox, and less like it’s a snow day.    
2. Space: prioritize finding a clean, quiet place in your home, and make it your office – maybe even call it that! Help your partner, kids, roommates – anyone that might be home with you – understand that when you’re in your “office” you shouldn’t be distracted. 
3. Communicate: don’t stop talking to your coworkers, direct reports, manager, etc. – and be proactive about it! If you eat lunch with your work buds every day, send a group text to check in.  If you drop into your supervisor’s office every morning around 9am, give him or her a quick call. If your team doesn’t already use Slack or Microsoft Teams, this would be the time to check it out!  
4. Balance: you’re human, and this is a stressful, unsettling time. Set boundaries for starting work and wrapping up your day. Set a reminder to stand every hour or so. Take a lunch break, walk the dog, or get a run in. Have patience with your loved ones – giving attention can bring you peace.  

I’ve added some additional resources below for more tips on how to keep it professional and productive while working from home. Let me know what you think! 

• Here’s how to stay productive – and connected – when you work from home  

• How to work from home, the right way  
• Coronavirus could mean you’ll be working from home. Here’s how to stay productive