Since the initial lockdown of the COVID-19 global pandemic, more people have been working remotely than ever. According to Global Workplace Analytics, it’s been estimated that about 30% of the workforce will be “working from home multiple days a week by the end of 2021.”
Because of the need to adapt to the new norm, many firms have awakened to the substantial long-term benefits of having their employees work from home (or elsewhere). Companies have discovered ways to cut back on costs, from monthly rentals and utilities to commercial real estate.
Many team members report they are significantly happier with the trust of their company, which means more loyal and enthusiastic employees. In short, the benefits of remote work policies have changed the face of the workplace for the foreseeable future.
When you’re a tele-worker, a level of self-discipline is necessary to ensure you remain productive even when you aren’t operating in the corporate office. Here are four ways to increase your productivity while you work remotely.
1. Set Yourself Up with a Routine
As human beings, we thrive on routine. Regular behavior and surroundings provide us with a sense of consistency and structure which is useful for our productivity.
Over time, this builds momentum as we become accustomed to the structure of our day. But this doesn’t just apply to our nine-to-five workday. The comfort of a routine applies to other facets of our lives, as well.
A morning ritual can start your day off right. An evening routine closes the day on the note you desire. Even how you turn on and off from your labor is a routine of its own that can affect the quality and pace of your productivity.
So find a flow that works for you. It’s okay if you don’t get it right the first few times. Trial and error will be a part of the process, but you should find your rhythm in time.
2. Stay in Digital Communication with Your Team
One potential loss due to no longer working in an office is the lack of day-to-day human interaction with your peers and managers. That doesn’t mean you have to be completely removed from communication with them.
Dozens of software and platforms like Slack or Zoom are available to facilitate digital communications, whether through direct messaging or virtual calls. For instance, if you own a property management company in San Antonio, you may have employees that have various types of roles.
They could be working remotely from their computers and managing the marketing of rental properties. Others could be visiting the various sites in the region to oversee inspections or repairs.
Digital communications platforms can enable you to check in virtually with your employees no matter where they might be working. The most important thing is to maintain the flow of information.
3. Give Yourself a Proper Lunch Break
It’s too easy to get caught up in the process of your work. As a part of your routine, set aside a solid one-hour lunch break. This means stepping away from your computer, going outdoors, and giving yourself a reprieve from the daily grind the same way you would if you were at the office.
4. Create a Space That is Conducive To Your Work Style
Set yourself up for success by creating a workspace that is conducive to your work style. If you need lots of whiteboards to jot down your next million-dollar marketing idea, set them up somewhere in your home office.
Perhaps you prefer to keep things minimal, with lots of light. Have your desk face a window in your home where there is a lot of natural light.
Some people like to mix up their environment by going to local coffee shops or coworking spaces. They don’t like to be in the same place when getting their work done. Remember, the goal is to find what works best for you.
