If there’s one thing we can be sure of in a post-coronavirus world, it’s that remote working will become much more widespread. This is predicted to lead to amazing benefits for both employers and employees. We’ve put together some hints & tips on how to remain productive when working from home.

Structure your day

You might have allowed yourself to wear your PJs for the first day of remote work, but it’s an unhealthy habit to start. Start off the way you intend to continue. Whilst you have more freedom, it’s crucial to develop a productive routine:

  • Get up at the same time you normally would, get dressed and be ready to begin work at the usual office time
  • Plan your day. Write a to-do list and appreciate how much time each task will take. Don’t plan more than you know you can do
  • Take scheduled breaks so you can take a step away from the workspace; use short breaks as a reward for when you have accomplished a milestone. (And minimise distractions: if you’re the type of person who struggles knowing that there’s laundry or dirty dishes to be done, structure handling these into your breaks)
  • Know when you are most productive during the day. Use these times to your advantage so you can best achieve your goals
  • Finish at the same time as you normally would in a typical office day. If you’re on a roll, by all means keep going but don’t keep working all evening

Create your workspace

Not everyone has the room for an office in their home. Nevertheless, a dedicated workspace is necessary to eliminate distractions and improve your focus:

  • Find an area in your home with the least amount of traffic, even if it’s just a quiet corner
  • Make it your mission to fill your workspace with comfortable furniture
  • Don’t work in the living room or the kitchen. These are family areas and it’s not fair on other household members
  • When possible, have your desk or work area in front of a window. Nature reduces stress levels and daylight will improve your overall well-being
  • If helpful, use music to block out distracting sounds. Noise-cancellation headphones will also make a difference
  • Remind your partner, family or house-mates that this is your personal workspace and explain the importance of not being interrupted. It’s difficult for some people (especially youngsters) to learn that, although you are at home, you aren’t at everyone’s disposal

Take advantage of technology

Modern technology is amazing and allows us the freedom to work in ways that would have been impossible in the past, especially if it’s used properly:

  • As well an ensuring you have reliable wi-fi, make certain that your home network, and everything that’s connected to the system, has the correct security settings
  • There’s an abundance of apps that can help you structure your day when working from home. That said, downloading too many will encourage you to spend more time on your smartphone than actually working
  • If you need to invest in new technology, make sure it’s of sound quality. There is nothing more time-wasting than a printer that always jams or won’t connect, or a laptop that is always slow
  • Use your calendar or planner to keep on track of deadlines and virtual meetings
  • Project management apps, such as Trello, are suitable for people who aren’t keen on pen and paper to-do lists
  • Don’t be tempted to check social media platforms: they’ll drain your time. Turn off push notifications

Stay in contact

One of the biggest concerns about remote work is that there will be a decrease in communication that might affect productivity:

  • Use Instant chat apps, such as Slack or WhatsApp, over email when possible. Emails don’t always result in a speedy response and this can delay progress
  • Make sure your video chat apps, such as Skype or Zoom, are up to date and you have all of your contacts already saved
  • Arrange regular virtual meetings. As with any other meeting, there should be a topic and a structure. Allow employees to share their ideas and discuss their progress
  • If you feel there isn’t enough communication, suggest a virtual meeting to your managers
  • Don’t forget how important it is to have non-work contact or interaction with your colleagues. Many people miss the social aspect of working in the office and keeping in touch with your co-workers helps prevent you feeling isolated

Take care of yourself

In order to be as productive as you can, a healthy body is crucial. It will help you to increase your energy levels, sleep better, and remain positive:

  • Working from home makes it much easier to pick at unhealthy snacks rather than eat what we had prepared for lunch. Plan healthy meals and snacks and avoid buying junk food
  • Make time in your schedule for daily exercise. Think about the using the time you save on commuting for sport, even if it’s just a short walk
  • Learn how to break away from your workspace at the end of the day and spend quality time with your friends and family
  • Go outside as often as possible. If you aren’t being productive inside, you’re better off going outside. Take a breath of fresh air and enjoy a boost of creativity

In summary

Notwithstanding the current circumstances, working from home has amazing perks and it’s normal that it takes a few days to adjust to your new environment. No one person will have the same workspace or daily routine: it’s all about discovering what is ideal for you.

If you want a job abroad, visit our jobs portal to see the latest vacancies. Our site includes a downloadable All You Need to Know guide which will tell you all you need to know about living and working offshore.