Times have changed. With super speed broadband, wifi and shared folders like Dropbox, we can access all of our files no matter where we are. So what does this mean for the workplace? Do we still need the office environment?
Working from home may sound like the dream, you can work in your pyjamas, eat when you are hungry and take a break when you need to. In fact, many reports have shown that productivity can increase when employees are allowed the freedom to work from home. The office environment is great, but quite often it can be distracting, especially if you are trying to concentrate on complex information or content writing. Working remotely can save hours of an employees time commuting and getting ready to come into the office.
But there are downsides to working from home. You will have to be disciplined, the tv and the fridge can be major distractions if you are working from home. You miss out on the natural collaboration that occurs in the office and you can end up feeling like you aren’t part of the team. If you don’t put a clear schedule in place, it is easy to work long after you should have clocked out.
If you are working from home there are some simple rules you can follow to make sure you are managing your time as effectively as possible.
Set Up a Workspace
Even though you aren’t in an office, make sure there is a space where you can go and work, free from distractions and clutter. Having this space separate from your main living space will encourage you to get into the ‘work zone’. If you are living with friends, family or a spouse, it will also discourage them from distracting you if they know you are working.
Make time for Meetings
It is so important to remember that you are part of a team. Regular meetings with clients and colleagues will help to keep you in the loop as well as building bonds between you and the people you are working with. The same goes for events and training. If there is an opportunity to get together as a team, try to take advantage of this.
Reply to messages
If you are working from home, you need to be quick off the mark when it comes to replying to messages. Being close to your phone and computer will show both clients and colleagues that you are ready to work.
Flexitime seems like the best option for increasing productivity. Work split between the house and the office can be beneficial if an employee wants to work this way. Maintaining the balance is key to managing the modern work environment.
