HOUSTON – If you’re struggling to get your work done from home, you’re not alone. Many are finding the transition to be difficult. Though there are advantages like no longer having to deal with commuter traffic, working from home presents a unique set of challenges. People new to the concept might find it hard to stay productive without the normal office bustle or are having trouble staying on the same page as their team without face-to-face communication. Houston Life turned to Founder and CEO of CKP Communications Group Carey Kirkpatrick for expert advice on how to successfully make the switch and be productive when working from home.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR THE WORKDAY?
“You’re preparing yourself mentally to make that switch to going to work. So, it’s just like business as usual.”
- Follow the same morning routine you have for going into the office
- Routines create mental separation between your domestic and professional mindset
- Dress up and do your hair/makeup! This improves confidence, creative thinking and how others perceive you in video chats
DO I NEED A DESIGNATED WORKSPACE?
“Mom’s going into her office. She’s going to work now.”
- Don’t work from your couch or bed! Establishing a ‘work zone’ helps to add structure to your day
- If your spouse/partner works from home, try arranging separate workspaces to minimize distraction
- For children or others at home, use this space to serve as a reminder that you’re on the clock
HOW CAN TECHNOLOGY HELP ME?
“We all have some sort of calendar...It helps you stay accountable, and keep track and organized.”
- There are many tools that can help you organize your day, many of which are free and included in most productivity platforms
- Utilize shared calendars, task trackers, to-do lists and reminder notifications to help keep you accountable
- When communicating with others, do so as if you were physically sitting next to them or in a meeting
WHAT SHOULD I DO DIFFERENTLY?
“Let’s all just exhibit some patience with the people that we work with.”
- Remember, your colleagues might be working remotely for the first time as well
- Over-communicate progress on your tasks, but don’t be annoying
- Check in on your team’s tasks and clarify your priorities
- Be patient, proactive, helpful and present
- When working from home, the concept of “managing up” is critical
HOW CAN I MAINTAIN WORK-LIFE BALANCE?
“It’s setting those ground rules, but also making sure everybody knows what to do.”
- Take breaks and move around to clear your head and fuel your creative mind
- Walk the dog, stretch or care for your family
- Set restrictions on work communications when you’re off the clock
- Avoid burnout!
For more tips or to connect with Carey Kirkpatrick, click here.