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5 tips for working from home during the coronavirus

Posted at 6:55 AM, Mar 31, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-31 09:55:41-04

It may have sounded like a chance to wear pajamas while you work or even a chance to tackle some chores on your so called "breaks." However, many are finding out that working from home amid the coronavirus has a whole new set of challenges.

Here are 5 ways to stay productive while working from home:

1. Communicate:

One of the first challenges when working from home is finding the right way to communicate with teammates. Decide if you are going to have set phone calls, video calls and meetings as soon as possible. There may be more at the start while a routine is established.

If you feel like your over communicating or not getting enough feedback from your team - say something NOW!

2. Create a dedicated work space:

Find a place in your home that you only use for work. This could be a table in the living room, but make sure it is only used for work! If possible, find ways to make it feel like the office. For example, if you have a drawer with essentials like pens and scissors, have those handy at home.

3. Check your equipment:

Make sure you know what equipment you need to get the job done. Is you internet connection strong enough to make video calls? Do you know how to use platforms like Zoom to make those calls or Google Docs for storage?

The key is to test them, before you need to use them.

4. Celebrate getting things done:

This doesn't mean throw a party for sending an email, but find ways to take breaks and recognize you've crossed something off the to-do list. It used to look like stopping in to chat with a co-worker, but now that could mean spending time with your dogs or getting a fresh cup of coffee.

5. Cut off work at the end of the day:

Find ways to separate you work day from the rest of your day. For some that could mean closing the door to your home office, but if that isn't the case, out of sight out of mind- tuck your laptop into a drawer. Also, if you can, try turning off email notifications at the end of the day.

BONUS TIPS:

  • Create a schedule and stick to it. Have a start time and end time so you don't overwork yourself.
  • If you miss social interaction, host a happy hour from your couch!