Brought to you by Ooma:
If there is one thing that people have demonstrated during Covid-19, it’s that they can be resourceful when called upon. Working at home is obviously not a possibility for some people. Healthcare professionals, retail workers, and production employees all need to be physically on location in order to do their jobs.
For those who are able to work from home, however, this crisis has opened up new possibilities. This new work scenario may also be the impetus for re-imagining the office of the future. To be effective while working from home, however, you need to follow some sensible guidelines.
Keep Your Work Routine
Wake up the same time you did when you worked at the office. Don’t stay in your pajamas, either. Shower and get dressed as soon as you wake up. Try to stay on the same time schedule for working. If you worked 8 to 5 in the office, maintain those same hours at home. If you had a long commute to work every day, take that extra time to exercise or meditate before you begin your workday.
One of the downfalls of working from home is the temptation to perhaps fold some laundry rather than write that important proposal for the boss. To avoid this danger, create a strict schedule of necessary work duties and stick to it. Factor in a few quick breaks during the day to get up and stretch and grab a cup of coffee. Don’t forget to take a lunch break as well. Make sure you take the same allotted time for lunch that you had at the office. It will help to reinvigorate you and refocus your mind for the afternoon.
Create a Functional Work Space
No matter where you choose to designate your office area, make it your own personal space. If you don’t have a separate room in which to create an office, you can still make the setup work for you. Try setting up a desk in the corner of the living room or family room. Personalize the area with photos, pencil holders, and that mug the kids gave you for the holidays.
The key to making the space effective for work is to set some ground rules for the rest of the household to follow. Let your partner and children know that you must not be interrupted during work hours unless an emergency arises. Teaching kids to respect your boundaries at an early age will help them to respect others as they get older.
Invest in Ergonomic Furniture
Check with your boss to see if the company will reimburse you for a few home office essentials. If not, perhaps there are extra desks and chairs sitting in the warehouse, or maybe your boss will allow you to take your office chair home for a while.
If you do choose to buy a new desk, consider one that adjusts from sitting to standing. This will allow you to stay focused as you alternate positions throughout the day. Invest in a chair that is comfortable and gives your back sufficient support.
Consider Buying a Separate Work Phone
It can be very distracting when your personal phone starts ringing at the office. If your mobile phone is your only means of communicating from home with office staff and clients, you may be distracted by the personal calls you receive. Consider purchasing an inexpensive mobile phone strictly for business so you keep your personal and professional lives separate.
If you implement a smart plan, you should be able to work from home successfully. Just keep your boss in the loop on any decisions that might impact the business.
