The new year has arrived, but you’re probably not going back to the office anytime soon. Since the COVID-19 pandemic is still raging, and most Americans won’t have the opportunity to receive the vaccine for months, it’s important to make remote work as enjoyable as possible.
Your employer may turn working from home into a regular — or even permanent — arrangement post-pandemic. Therefore, learning how to do your best work while staying connected and striking a balance with your personal life is necessary.
Here’s some advice to help you get the most from your remote workday.
Create a Dedicated Workspace
Your home is filled with distractions, so you need a quiet workspace where you can get away from it all. Instead of continuing to use the couch or the kitchen table, carve out a new space that’s just for work. If you don’t have any extra room, you might consider getting a small desk and transforming a corner of your bedroom into a makeshift office. This will improve your concentration, allowing you to boost your productivity and quality of work.
Define Your Work Hours
If you don’t set boundaries, working from home can easily put you in more hours than ever. Create a defined work schedule so you don’t feel pressured to take calls and answer emails during your personal time. Just because your home is now serving double duty as your office doesn’t mean you’re always on call.
Take Breaks
No doubt, when you worked in an office, you took breaks for lunch, coffee, and chats in the kitchen with colleagues. The setting has changed, but that doesn’t mean you have to complete marathon work sessions. It’s just as necessary as ever to get up and move around at regular intervals. Taking a lunch break, going for a walk around the block, or brewing some afternoon coffee will improve your focus when you return to work.
Maintain Relationships With Your Colleagues
You don’t see your co-workers every day — or probably at all — right now, but that doesn’t mean your bond has to break. Use video calls, chat apps, and email to stay in touch. Taking a few minutes to share stories about your weekend activities or scheduling a bi-weekly virtual happy hour will help you feel less isolated and keep the group more connected.
Want to start the new year with an exciting new job? PrideStaff North Dallas is here to help you find your perfect fit. Contact us today to learn more!
