A New Way Of Working: How To Adapt To Hybrid And Remote Work
The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we work forever, and in many cases, it did so overnight. It forced businesses — including startups — to send employees home to work remotely, with little time to prepare for the transition. Now, many startups are embracing hybrid work models, where employees split their time between working in the office and working from home. Others are choosing to go fully remote. So, how do you make the home office feel more like the actual office?
7 Tips to Embrace Hybrid and Remote Work
If you’re used to working in an office, the transition to working from home can be a bit of a challenge. Let’s face it: everyone’s not productive while working in their PJs (even though it seems like a dream for most). Here are a few things you can do to make the transition easier:
- Create a Dedicated Workspace
If you don’t have a dedicated workspace at home, now is the time to create one. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, but it should be a space where you can go to focus on work and get into the right mindset. This will help you avoid distractions and stay productive.
2. Create a Schedule and Stick to It
When you’re working from home, it can be easy to let your work life bleed into your personal life. To avoid this, it’s important to create a schedule and stick to it as much as possible. Set regular hours for yourself and make sure to take breaks throughout the day. Once you’re done with work for the day, close your laptop and put it away so that you’re not tempted to keep working. If you can stick to a regular schedule, you’ll find it much easier to balance work and life when they’re both happening under one roof.
3. Stay Connected With Your Team
Working from home can be isolating, so it’s important to stay connected with your team. Make sure to schedule regular one-on-one check-ins with your team members and make them on-camera video calls — not just audio calls. This will help you stay up-to-date on projects, gauge team morale, and prevent any miscommunication.
4. Invest in the Right Tools
To be productive when working from home, you need to have the right tools. This includes things like a fast and reliable computer, great wifi, a comfortable chair, and any software or applications that you need to get the job done.
5. Take breaks
When you’re working from home, it’s easy to get so caught up in what you’re doing that you forget to take breaks. However, it’s important to step away from your work every now and then to clear your head. Go for a walk, grab a snack, or just step away from your desk for a few minutes. You’ll come back feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
6. Set boundaries with family and friends
If you have kids at home, it can be especially challenging to find time to focus on work. So, it’s important to set boundaries with family and friends about when you’re available to talk and when you need to focus on work. Let them know that even though you’re at home, you’re still working and can’t be interrupted all the time.
7. Get dressed for work
Just because you’re working from home doesn’t mean you should work in your pajamas all day! Getting dressed for work will help put you in the right mindset and make you feel more professional.
Stay Productive While Working Remotely
Working from home can be a big adjustment, but with these tips, you’ll be able to make the transition seamlessly. Creating a dedicated workspace, setting office hours, and staying connected with your team are all keys to being productive when working from home. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the transition to remote or hybrid work, don’t worry — just follow these simple tips and you’ll be back on track in no time.
