The Do's and Don'ts for Employees Working Remotely

We all are dealing with an unprecedented situation because of COVID19 today. Workers from all around the globe are working remotely and trying to adapt to the remote work culture.

Remote working has its perks and benefits, and it gives you the flexibility to finish your tasks. But to be more productive in this work culture, you must understand the dos and don'ts.

And if you are new to this evolving paradigm, all you need is the correct principles and guidelines to keep going.

Here Are Our Key Dos And Don'ts

Dos

1. Do prep for your workstation

Your workstation is where you put all your energy when you work remotely. Please make sure you prep for it. Arrange all the resources you need to build your workstation. Find a place that is comfortable and distraction-free. Since you will spend most of your time working, make sure you keep all the necessary equipment right near your workstation.

Related: Work From Home Setup - What Every Employee Must Have

2. Create a morning routine

A routine is what triggers your mind to get you started. Maintain a morning routine. It can be anything from making yourself a cup of coffee to doing some exercises or changing your pajamas to your getting dressed for work.

When you start your day early to follow your routine, it eventually becomes a habit that helps you keep going. If you are new to this culture of work, a routine is a must to follow. A mindful start in the morning can keep you sane and save you much time and help you not to rush later.

3. Communicate with your team regularly

Just because you are working remotely does not mean that you will work on your own. Communicate with your team regularly and stay updated. Tools such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Workplace by Facebook will help you keep in touch with peers and staff.

These can help you connect with your team, arrange meetings, share files and information related to your work. Also, these can keep everyone on the same page and even more productive.

Related: 17 Must-Have Tools for Remote Workers

4. Do take breaks

Take breaks in between to rejuvenate yourself. Taking a break or relaxing helps your brain to retain information better and be more productive. It is the fuel that needs to be refilled from time to time to keep you get going.

Take conscious breaks like 10-15 minutes every hour. You can listen to your favorite music, take your dog out for a walk, or have some family time during the breaks. But make a point not to take extended breaks, or else it will keep you rushing later.

5. Take care of your body and mind

Keep your body and mind with the proper nourishment it demands. Get enough sleep and eat healthy food. Make a point to wake up early and resist the temptation to oversleep in the morning.

Most importantly, do exercise, even if it is for 15 minutes. Go for a walk or do some stretching to keep yourself active throughout the day. Meditation is also something that you try for better focus and concentration at your work. It is essential to do these practices regularly for better results.

6. Stay organized and plan your tasks

Do you know what a time killer is? A disorganized structure and not having a plan or to-do list. Organize your tasks based on the priority list. Do the most important work at your most productive hours. This practice will help you be more effective in your career.

You can plan your tasks or create a to-do list the night before or in the morning. That will set a tone for the rest of your day. And you exactly know what to and when. Innovative work is all you need.

Don'ts

1. Don't handle household chores during work hours

When you are working remotely, you will manage your chores; that's understandable. But it is crucial to keep a balance between the two. Take time out to do the tasks and not let them interfere with your work hours. You cannot just hold a meeting and go grocery shopping. That can be very distracting and can take twice as long to complete your work.

2. Don't procrastinate

When you work from home, the flexibility can make you procrastinate more if you are not self-aware. People procrastinate now and then, and that's understandable. But if you do it regularly, then that might be a problem.

It can bring more stress to your work-life. Procrastination can pile up things and may eventually become very difficult for you to get done. One of the significant reasons behind procrastination is because the task at hand seems too daunting. In such cases, it's better to start and find ways to reduce remote work stress.

3. Don't let your day slip away

Set office hours and give yourself a definite time to work. It can be based on a schedule that works for you. If evening hours work best for you, go for it. But not let the day slip away. Structure your day and plan what you want to achieve, and stick to it. Please don't take it as your day off, because it is not. Stick to your priorities and get the work done.

4. Don't binge on your compulsions

Try to control your compulsions. For example, don't snack all day when you are working remotely. This is not only unhealthy but can keep you unproductive throughout the day. Also, if you like to play games or follow any other hobbies or interests, don't let that distract you and come between you and your work.

5. Don’t work from anywhere

Don’t work from anywhere. A dedicated routine and workspace are essential. For the change of scenery, you might change that for a while. You can also share a coworking space with other professionals if you want.

The other factor that you have to consider is that absolutely no working from your sofa or bed, no matter how tempting it might be. The reason is very logical. The sofa and bed make you slouch, and also, it is not advisable for your body posture.

6. Don't allow your email and social media to be your distractions

Minimize distractions as much as you can. Even though it is essential to check your emails throughout the day, you do not have to keep them open all the time. Block an ideal time to review your emails. The same goes for social media, and it is more distracting since it is more recreational and fun.

So, use your social sites or post a picture of your pet during your break time. Also, you are free to choose a place to work that is distraction-free. Remote working gives you that luxury. Therefore, prioritize so that you can be more focused on your work.

Worth Reading This: 14 Work From Home Tips To Maximize Your Productivity

Final Note!

Do you work remotely too? What are the other dos and don'ts that you have for people who are working from home? Please, do let us know in the comment section below.

This article is written by Braja Deepon Roy. He works as a Content Creator and Digital Marketer at Vantage Circle. He actively participates in the growth of corporate culture and keeps himself updated in this space. For any related queries, contact editor@vantagecircle.com