Advances in technology and mobile electronics have made working from home more and more common. Depending on your work situation some jobs can be performed within the walls of your home, but there are a few things you must keep in mind when working from home. It may be tempting to finish up the laundry, do the dishes from last night’s football gathering or reorganize the bedroom, but the question is how do you stay focused?
1. Designate YOUR office space
Whether you work from home one day a week or five days a week, make sure you set aside a space that is strictly for work. Make this place your work zone. That way when you step into this space you are put into the right mind set. Making a designated office room, or nook is crucial for performance.
2. Dress for work
Dress as if you are going into the office. When you look sharp, you feel sharp. Also, if an impromptu client meeting comes up you are ready to go.
3. Utilize free technology to keep you organized
While working from home you will no longer have your manager or coworker by your side to send gentle reminders. Google has excellent apps to keep you organized and on your game. I highly recommend Google hang outs to communicate quickly with coworkers, Google calendar for scheduling purposes and Google keeper to track daily notes/tasks.
4. Keep to a normal schedule
The best ability is availability. Whether your office’s hours are 8-5 or 10-6, work during the typical in-office hours. Keep your schedule consistent.
5. Stay in touch
Be accessible from home. Keep your cell phone on and email open. If you are in a business such as recruiting where urgency is important you need to be readily accessible to communicate with your coworkers.
So there you have it. Follow these 5 tips and you’ll be as successful working from home as you would be in the office!
