Work from home a lot?
Here are my Top Tips for Working Remotely
1. ROUTINE… establish one!
One of the most difficult things about working remotely is defining a routine. Unless we are strict with separating work life and home life, evenings and weekends can soon blur into one big ugly mass.
And remember, working more hours doesn’t always equate to getting more done.
If you work from home, set a loud alarm at the same time each day as a reminder to stop working. And unless you’re on the phone when the alarm sounds, be strict, shut everything down and make a swift exit… unarmed! It’s so tempting to take the ipad or phone downstairs with you, and continue on work related things during dinner time or while relaxing with the family.
2. SOCIAL MEDIA
Be aware of how much time you spend on social media for work reasons.
Try this exercise: Now let’s say you have a business facebook page. For one week, log the amount of time you spend on the page, then work out how much money you’ve earned as a result. This simple exercise will tell you if the page is working for you.
This is about getting a return for time invested, as well as spending your time doing what’s really important to you. Are you missing out on family time, because you’re busy ‘working’ on social media? Decide what is right for you and prioritise.
3. DRESS FOR THE OCCASION
If you’re slobbing around all day in your dressing gown and slippers whilst working from home, your work approach will not be the same as when you are freshened up and dressed in smart / casual clothing. You don’t have to go as far as wearing a suit, but something half decent will help get you in the right frame of mind. Doing this will also help you to distinguish between relaxing at home on your day off and working from home.
4. WHERE TO GO
Being a remote worker doesn’t necessarily mean you have to work from home. The availability of WIFI means it’s now incredibly easy to take your work elsewhere. A coffee shop is a great place to work, as it should provide enough of a buzz to help you feel like you’re not isolated, but enough peace and quiet to get on with your work.
Also, if appropriate to your business, there are lots of companies who rent out spare desk space out for a fraction of the cost of renting your own premises. This is ideal if you like to have people around you as working from home can get lonely sometimes!
5. GET OUTDOORS
It’s easy to stay in the house all day if you’re a home worker. By 6pm, you might find yourself feeling quite craggy. Just half an hour spent outdoors can change your whole day. A brisk morning walk can really get the endorphins going, and set you up for the day ahead. If possible, take a note book with you as it’s at times like these that you’re really open to inspiration. I find a quick potter around in the garden for half an hour helps me gain perspective on things!
6. TIME TO TALK
Rather than pinging emails to all your clients and suppliers, pick up the phone from time to time and call them instead. Not only will this remind you that you are still alive, but it will also help build rapport with the people around you.
7. KEEP IT CLEAN
Amazing the impact a messy desk or environment can have on your productivity. A quick tidy can make all the difference and help you focus.
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