Working on a remote, flexible schedule is appealing for many reasons. It is important to know the best ways to capitalize on this newfound “freedom” from the traditional workplace 9-5. In the article below, Brian Thuer discusses industry trends for an ideal remote work/life balance.
Reliable Technology
Working remotely can be frustrating if there are constant struggles with spotty internet and unreliable technology. Having a work call cut off or a business application crash and be detrimental to any business. Consistent access to a reliable internet connection is a must!
According to Career Karma, remote employees should not overlook their laptop’s battery life. Extensive battery life not only increases productivity, but allows the remote worker the ability to multi-task in a variety of locations, without the need to plug-in.
Communication
Communicating with your boss, team, or employees on a consistent basis is beneficial for developing an efficient remote office. Understanding expectations of the workload, assignments and deadlines gives more flexibility to allow for life’s interruptions. Having the flexibility to attend medical appointments, take care of elderly parents or attend a child’s sports game during the week allows for greater employee satisfaction and builds trust between staff.
Community Support
Loneliness can be a concern for those who work remote. A traditional office can be noisy and distracting, with lots of people and a buzz of activity. While this can be a great social environment, studies have shown that with these socialized settings of traditional office spaces have decreased productivity than unconventional remote offices.
Without the office buzz, a feeling of isolation can creep in and become discouraging, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic. One way to build a sense of community is to utilize social media and connect with others who work remotely. Another is to set up multiple remote workspaces, including one outdoors. Studies show that spending just 20 minutes outdoors in fresh air can improve your mood. Continue to make time for and engage in hobbies and activities you love.
Good Workspaces
Focus is essential to all employees, remote or in-office. However, it can be especially tempting to get distracted as a telecommunicator. Having coworkers who are likeminded to keep you on track, or to assist with an assignment are not present. It can be easy to get distracted and start to clean the house for instance. The best way to counteract this is to designate a space that is set aside just for work. Many people are more productive in their own environment. Set a block of time to complete work projects and be in that “work-mode” domain.
Local coffee shops have been a popular choice for many remote workers since 2020, according to Noah Berkson of the Forbes Financial Council. The relaxed atmosphere of a coffee shop has been shown to have a positive impact on the virtual worker’s brain. The visual stimuli of seeing other people working and having less distractions than a traditional office makes the brain look for new pathways and create new mechanisms to complete tasks.
Work Rhythms
Every employee, traditional or remote should understand their own styles and preferences while they work. If a virtual employee is used to working in silence, dedicating a quiet section of their home, or investing in noise-reducing headphones can be beneficial. Choice a room with a great view from a window to allow for creative thinking and increased productivity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, remote work is very rewarding and cost effective. Working away from the traditional office can make a remote worker feel more in control and allows more time to plan work and home life. This sense of achievement makes employees more productive, motivated, and happier. Not only does the employee save on travel costs, childcare, and overall wellness, but the employer gains improved employee retention, lower overhead costs and better quality of work.
