While businesses and people managers have a lot to consider regarding their business continuity plans, employees have just as many considerations. If you are able to work remotely because your company has a policy and you have technology that supports telework, you may not be prepared for long-term full-time telework. Here are some tips and tricks to stay productive and sane as a teleworker:
- Communication – Combat feelings of isolation by leveraging communication tools to connect with your manager and teammates. Use existing technologies to chat, email, and video conference often. Text messages and FaceTime can be just as helpful in staying connected.
- Schedules – Write down your daily tasks and prioritize them based on deadlines. Share progress updates internally to increase productivity and complete work on time.
- Stay Active – When you travel to an office every day, you are likely walking from the bus stop or walking to lunch. Finding ways to stay active around the house can boost morale and your energy. Our favorite activity is a nice walk around the block.
- Change Your Environment – A change of environment within your home workspace can keep you energized and productive throughout the day. Move to a different desk, light a candle, or play music you might hear in your company lobby or in the elevator.
- Create Focused Work Time – Using technology tools for chat and video calls can interrupt productivity. For head-down focused work time, put up an away message, send a note to your team and manager and focus in on something specific.
Plan, but Be Flexible – If schools and businesses close and you are not alone in your house, plan to take shifts for childcare and adjust your work schedule. Setting clear expectations for work and home will be important. Additionally, not all your teammates may be able to work remotely. Be prepared to jump in and complete tasks and provide input on projects you might not normally work on.
Be sure to log your telework trips at Get There Oregon!
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