We’re seeing a rise in remote work. And it’s no surprise because remote work can be a wonderful gift! Working out of the office can lower stress, improve personal relationships, and make more loyal employees.
Here are the most compelling reasons why a business should adopt a flexible work practice:
NO Commute
The health and well-being of a workforce have proven links to productivity. Commuting is often stressful and unpleasant. Whether it’s an hour metro ride or a 30-minute drive to the office, this is time employees will never get back. Remote work allows workers to arrive at their desk ready to go.
Improves Productivity
Does this sound familiar? You’re at your desk trying to write up a report, and every five minutes a coworker seems to stop by your desk to chat. As a result, a task that should have only taken 20 minutes, takes an hour.
With none of the distractions from a traditional office setting, remote working can drive up efficiency. It allows the worker to retain more of their time in the day and adjust to their personal schedule.
Reduces Employee Turnover
On-boarding a new employee is expensive–there’s no way around that. Telecommuting can help solve high turnover. Not only is it attractive to millennial workers, but it is also desirable for older generations. Because let’s be honest, life throws curveballs and sometimes you have to pick the kids up early from school.
Okay, now you’re probably thinking that’s all fine and dandy. But I bet you’re wondering how people can stay productive, creative, and live up to expectations with a flexible workplace. Well, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we share a few remote working tips for employees. Enjoy!
Top 5 Remote Working Tips
Consider your workspace
Set yourself up for success! For example, it’s wise to set up a designated space for work. The workspace should allow for quiet and few distractions. Your designated work spot should make you feel ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
Having your own space will help you focus and let other household members know when you are working.
Invest in a quality phone
If you’re on the phone a lot, you may want to invest in a noise-canceling headset. These headsets help block out your neighbor’s barking dog and other noises.
Also, many VOIP systems have a “find me follow me” feature. So, if possible, you may be able to forward your office calls to home/cell phone, so you never miss a call.
Check your device
If you’re working from home, you should be using a company-issued device. You should keep this device up-to-date on its patching and antivirus.
Also, it’s important to remember that saving company data on personal devices is probably a violation of company policy. But on top of that, it could also be a violation of compliance depending on your industry. So, make sure you are mindful of where you store your data.
Use fast & reliable Internet connection
Everyone hates slow Internet. It makes the simplest task feel like a burden. On top of that, any remote worker will tell you that access to reliable Internet is an integral part of their success. So, make sure that your home Internet is fast and reliable. You’ll thank yourself later.
If you are using WiFi, make sure it is at least secured by a password.
Also, on a side note, be wary of free WIFI. We wrote an article about how free WIFI isn’t the safest thing in the world: https://www.mrwsystems.com/2019/02/12/is-free-wifi-safe/
Be sure to communicate with other coworkers
Our final remote working tip is about communication. There are many great ways to share information outside of email now. Because you’re not in the office every day, it is vital that you make it easy for others to see your progress. There are many tools out there to help you collaborate, such as Microsoft’s Teams, Skype, Trello, and Stack. These tools make it easier for your manager and colleagues to receive an update or feedback on a project.
Conclusion
And last but not least, make sure you determine the end of your workday. While working from home is great, it can be challenging to stop working when your workstation is nearby. Be kind to yourself, and a take a break.