For many of us working from home is the new norm. It is the next big thing and what many employees look for when searching the job market. Video conferencing helps offer employees working remotely more flexibility, fewer distractions and cuts on time and costs.
But, for many, the freedom of working from home can also be demotivating. So here are some tips, that I have found, help keep you motivated when working from home:
Wear work attire
Start your day off as if you were getting ready to go in to the office. Shower and dress appropriately, I’m not saying you have to wear a dress or suite, but get out of those pajamas. Wearing sweats makes you feel relaxed and can start your day off
Set a schedule
One of greatest benefits of working from home is breaking away from the 9-to-5 workday. But functioning without any structure can completely ruin your productivity for the day.
Try dividing the work day in to sections. In the morning take some "catch up" time to go through emails and run through your schedule for the day. Set up a "collaboration" period when you work with coworkers on developments or connect with your manager. Then, dedicate your day to "serious work" time, when you get through the most problematic projects of the day. Allow yourself some small breaks throughout your day as well.
By requiring a reasonably consistent work schedule, it's easier to stay on task and maintain a division between your professional and personal lives.
Change up your scenery
If you are feeling a bit tired or unmotivated, consider moving your work to a library or local coffee shop. Being in a new atmosphere where there people are around can help keep you focused and energetic.
If you don’t have the option to leave, then take a break and get some fresh air. Take a short walk to revitalize yourself, it will help separate you from your home office.
Use video conferencing
One of the disadvantages of communicating strictly through email, instant messaging and phone calls is the struggle to read people. Use video conferencing technology to put faces to people you work with and allow them to get to know you better. Instead of sending an instant message use Microsoft Lync to connect via video. Solutionz offers desktop video conferencing systems that make staying connected easy with HD video and audio, presence management, and collaboration tools.
Prepare for teleconferences
If you have a conference or meeting make sure to prepare before it starts. Check all of your technology to make sure everything is working appropriately and allow yourself enough time to make arrangements if something needs fixed. There is nothing worse than not being able to communicate or use your technology properly during a conference.
Keep the small talk with coworkers
Remote workers miss all the morning vent sessions and chats. The stories about your weekend or discussions about what was on TV last night shouldn't be dismissed as a waste of time. Try connecting by making small talk with some of your coworkers. Use IM or send a funny email once awhile to discuss issues that are not work related.
Plan a lunch date
If you work from home it’s nice to get out to meet for one-on-one lunch dates every now and then. A new environment can help improve your attitude and your productivity. You can even use this as a time to meet and get to know a coworker.
Visit the office and attend special events
If you are close to your office you should frequently stop by and attend company events. Face to face communication lets people know you are around. This helps people get know you and makes them more comfortable when collaborating with you.
