Remote work is one of the great equalizers of our time, allowing people to find opportunities from companies around the world, no matter where they were born or where they live. Depending on who you ask, remote working is the biggest shift in the workplace since the industrial revolution - and it is here to stay.
Prior to March 2020, 75% of the U.S. workforce had never worked from home before, and with the pandemic billions of people across the globe were thrown into an entirely new and unknown way of remote collaboration.
It is safe to say, that remote work will continue to have a massively positive impact on the lives and work-life-balance of employees all over the world, as many forward thinking companies and startups have implemented flexible and progressive remote working policies.
Challenges of remote work
Although employees are committed to making remote work the new normal, there are many challenges that have to be overcome in order to make remote work a positive experience for employees and employers alike.
Some common challenges include:
- Less real-life human interaction and loneliness
- Distractions and lack of motivation
- Lack of focus-time, due to an increased amount of meetings
- Difficulties with communication and (asynchronous) collaboration
- Issues with time management and prioritization due lack of structure
Best practices to becoming a remote work pro
1. Create a dedicated workspace
One of the most important best practices for remote work is to create a dedicated workspace that is conducive to productivity. This space should be free from distractions and have everything you need to do your work effectively. Consider investing in a comfortable chair, a desk with ample space, and good lighting. This space should also be separate from your personal space so that you can maintain clear boundaries between work and home life.
2. Set boundaries between work and life
When working remotely, it can be difficult to separate work and personal life. It is important to establish clear boundaries between the two to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Set a schedule for your workday and stick to it. When your workday is over, disconnect from work-related tasks, and spend time on activities that help you relax and recharge.
3. Communicate effectively
Communication is key to success in remote work environments. Make sure to communicate regularly with your colleagues and team members. Use video conferencing tools to facilitate face-to-face communication, and respond promptly to emails and messages. Make sure everyone is on the same page and that expectations are clearly communicated.
4. Learn how to prioritize
Prioritization is an essential skill for remote workers. Create a to-do list or use a task management tool to stay organized and prioritize tasks based on importance and urgency. This will help you stay focused on your most important tasks and ensure that deadlines are met.
5. Take care of your physical and mental health
Remote work can be stressful, and it is important to take care of your physical and mental health. Take regular breaks throughout the day to stretch and move your body. Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress and anxiety. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy meals, and stay hydrated.
6. Stay connected with colleagues
When working remotely, it can be easy to feel isolated. Make an effort to stay connected with colleagues by scheduling regular check-ins and informal chats. Participate in team-building activities, and use social media and messaging apps to stay connected.
7. Learn new skills
Remote work often requires a different set of skills than traditional office work. Take advantage of online resources to learn new skills and stay up to date with industry trends. Consider taking online courses or attending virtual conferences to expand your knowledge.
8. Seek feedback proactively
Feedback is essential for growth and improvement. Proactively seek feedback from your colleagues and supervisors to understand how you can improve your work. Take constructive criticism positively and use it to make positive changes.
Remote work is completely different than working an office job - it takes time and dedication to figure out what works best for you to fulfill your role as best as possible. Hopefully some of these tips can be helpful to you to become the remote work rockstar you want to be.