Here are a few pointers to help in boosting your productivity while working from home:
Work From Home Productivity Tips - Have Clarity
Before you start working from home, make sure to have a conversation with your employer about the
"ground rules".
Do they require a regular 9-5 shift from you, or is their flexibility in your working hours? Are you allowed to work on public wifi? Which platform will be used for connecting with each other? Will it be on skype or zoom or slack?
Your employer needs to ensure you have all the necessities such as a laptop, as well as
network access, passcodes, and instructions for remote login, including two-factor authentication, etc.
Work From Home Productivity Tips - Set Up A Work Space
It is important to set up a
designated workspace at your home if you want to work efficiently. You need a private space where you can concentrate and work without any distractions. Separate your workspace from your personal life as much as possible. This means, if possible, try to set it up in a different room that is only used for the purpose of office work.
If you don't have a separate room, then make sure you have your setup in a separate corner of a bigger space.
Work From Home Productivity Tips - Minimize Distractions
Keep your work area distraction-free. This means, don't use your phone for any other purpose other than work. If your work doesn't require the use of your phone then keep it in a different spot when you are working. Invest in some good noise-canceling headphones that will help block out any barking dogs or sounds from your neighborhood.
If you
live with your spouse and kids, then you will have to figure out a different work schedule. In such cases, you can either ask your spouse for help till the time you are done with your work. Or, in case you both are working professionals, then you can take turns and schedule your day accordingly.
Work From Home Productivity Tips - Schedule Regular Breaks
Just because
you are working from home, doesn't mean you forget to take breaks. Taking breaks regularly will actually boost your productivity because the
human brain can only concentrate for 45 minutes. Hence, you must schedule a break every hour or so.
You can do anything to catch a break. You could go for a little walk or it could be as simple as having a cup of tea or reading a few pages from a book, or maybe listening to some music. But it is important to give your brain some time to breathe and then get back to work!
Work From Home Productivity Tips - Stick To A Schedule
Even when you are working from home, make it a habit to stick to a schedule. Wake up early, take a
shower, have breakfast, get dressed, and get ready to conquer the day!
Remember to divide your day into smaller goals, incorporate to-do lists that will help you stay organized. Also, some people are avid users of daily planners. It's okay if planners are not your thing, but creating a schedule will definitely help you stay on top of your game.
Work From Home Productivity Tips - Communicate Frequently
Since you are going to work remotely, it is necessary to stay connected with your team. Communicate with them as frequently as possible.
Platforms with instant messaging such as google hangouts and slack can help you in
staying in touch with your co-workers and managers.
Frequent communication reduces the chances of errors and mistakes.
There are many decisions that you might have to make as a team and it
can not be done without effective communication. Whenever you finish an important task or a project, make sure to update your manager or whoever the concerned person might be.
Lastly,
keep in mind that everyone has a different way and approach to get the job done. So try implementing these tips and see what works best for you.