With all that is happening in the world at the moment, more people than ever are working from home. Working in a different environment with extra challenges and distractions can make it hard to stay productive. Here are seven tricks to maintaining your productivity while WFH according to some of our staff!
- Create a schedule and stick to it
If you set out a daily routine and keep to your regular work hours, it will be easier to stay focused when you need to and then switch off again at the end of the day.
- Dress the part
Although it is tempting to wear tracksuit pants or even your pyjamas, dressing up as if you are going to the office puts you in the right mind set and can really help with productivity. And it also means you’re ready to take an unscheduled Zoom call at a moment’s notice!
- Keep communication open
Working from home can feel quite isolating, especially if you are not used to it. So, make sure you stay connected with your colleagues and clients whether it is via phone, email, online chat, or a video call. This will help with collaboration, maintaining relationships and it is great for your morale.
- Take regular breaks
When you are spending more time at home than usual, a change of scenery such as a walk around the block or sitting in your garden can clear your head, and you will return to your desk refreshed and ready to concentrate again!
- Designate a set work area
This will help you set good boundaries and maximise your concentration. If you don’t have the luxury of setting aside a whole room, try to find an area that you can cordon off where there will be minimum traffic flow. Make sure your environment is as comfortable as possible with an ergonomic chair, a suitable desk and sufficient lighting.
- Keep away from distractions
There are plenty of things that can distract you when you are working from home – the fridge, the TV, your family and even the housework! It is important to stay disciplined during work hours and also let those around you know that even though you are at home, during work time you can’t be disturbed.
- Set realistic goals
If you set a realistic goal for each day, this will help you stay motivated and you will feel a great sense of satisfaction once you have achieved it. At the end of each day, write down your goal for the next day. Then you are ready to switch off your computer and your working day is done.
Although working from home is new for many of us, by following these seven tips you will be surprised at just how productive you can be!