Remote working is becoming an increasingly popular model among workers from all over the world. For those accustomed to a full-time office job, or even those familiarized with flex work, switching to a home office situation, even if for a short period of time, can be a big transition and adjustment.
Situations that mandate people, businesses or countries to adapt to a new working model are unpredictable. Yet, there are different ways that workers and companies can adjust to these sudden changes. Many modern tech companies have already in place the means and policies needed to allow the majority of employees to work comfortably from home in the same manner as they were at the office. This is the case of Nearshore Portugal. In fact, the software development industry is no stranger to remote working. This is especially true to us since we are a nearshore software outsourcing provider.
More than ever, people and businesses need to adapt to unforeseen changes. This means turning the situation into a strength, rather than a crippling blow. As expected, converting a successful working from home attitude and mindset to action has its challenges. Yet, it’s also easier than you might think. It’s all about organization. Following these simple home office optimization methods will make all the difference!
Cleaning Your Workspace
First things first, organization means nothing unless you arrange your workspace in the best possible way. Having a dedicated space to work is the ideal way to optimize your schedule and tasks. This will help you to focus on the targets ahead, providing that mindset needed to get things done in the same way as you were at the office. Organize your day and clear all unnecessary objects from your desk so everything you need is nearby.
Remote working with the right technology
Having equipment and tools such as computers, email access, online conferencing, and access to internal networks are needed not just to keep in touch, but to make sure that work procedures follow the normal flow. Of course, it’s also important to take into consideration, not just communication tools but also shared documentation tools. All of this will ensure the same standards and expectations regardless of the worksite, home, or office.
Setting Communication Processes
Ensuring daily and frequent communication between coworkers and the client is essential. When working from home, the combination of distance and lack of socializing can become a source of stress and anxiety. One way to counter this is by making sure that a normal work routine is met. Thus, it’s important that both employees and clients use written communication tools besides Slack. They can be video calls, that ensure employees feel part of the meeting, can actively participate, and give feedback. This allows the reviewing of work to be done together as a way to keep up to speed. While at the same time, maintaining high performance, engagement, and the accomplishment of tasks.
Creating a To-Do list
That’s right, focus timers are a thing. When it comes to remote working, dedicating time and efforts to a project is a must but that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to sit in front of your desk for hours while focusing on that specific project non-stop. Occasionally, we all have to push a bit harder due to unforeseen issues or the demanding nature of a project. However, being in front of a laptop for hours can become counterproductive.
Optimization comes in many formers, and small breaks are a great way to reach greater efficiency. Taking a breather is important and so is refreshing the brain periodically, so remember to take a quick break every 45 minutes to recharge your batteries and rest. One famous method used by many is the Pomodoro Technique, which is based on a 25-minute working session, then a break for 5 minutes. After you do four 25-minute sessions, you take a 15 to 20-minute break
Using Focus Timers
That’s right, focus timers are a thing. Dedicating time and efforts to a project is a must but that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to sit in front of your desk for hours while focusing on that specific project non-stop. From time to time we all have to push a bit harder due to unforeseen issues or because of the demanding nature of the project. However, being in front of a laptop for hours can become counterproductive and small breaks are a great way to reach greater efficiency.
Taking a breather is important and so is refreshing the brain periodically, so remember to take a quick break every 45 minutes to recharge your batteries and rest. One famous method used by many is the Pomodoro Technique, which is based on a 25-minute working session, then a break for 5 minutes. After you do four 25-minute sessions, you take a 15 to 20-minute break.
As a society that plays on a global level, we can unexpectedly be faced with a situation that can change not just the way we work but the work itself. We live in an ever-changing time set in an ever-changing market defined by its sudden metamorphism. However, amidst these changes, adaptability and hard work are our biggest advantages. There is no shortage of methods that ensure an efficient approach when it comes to remote working. More than ever, transforming your home to a temporary office to your own private HQ is much easier. At the end of the day, the more optimized your home is, the more efficient you’ll become, translating into greater productivity.
