Working from home: Five Dos & Don'ts
With measures put in place throughout the world to protect against the spread of the Covid-19 virus, many of us are now working remotely.
Working from home was already a reality for those franchisees in home-based franchises. In fact, while you’re here, you should check out some of thehome-based franchise opportunities we have listed.
Many of you are currently coming to the realisation that working from home is drastically different from going into the office every day.
This is especially true if you are the boss. However, worry not, as we have created a handy list of “dos and don'ts” that every remote worker can stick to.
Do: Have a clear dedicated space for your work
Do not: Blur the lines between the space where you relax and where you work
Although it may be tempting to reply to those emails and write that report while sitting in front of the television, it may not be the best idea.
Distractions don’t improve productivity and the choice between the latest series of your favourite Netflix show and sending business emails is a needless one.
Instead, create an area, whether it be a desk, just a little space on a table or an entire office, that is dedicated to your business matters.
It will stand to you in the long run and will prevent you from mixing-up that work/life balance.
Do: Give yourself breaks
Do not: Feel because you are in your home, you need to work every hour
The work/life balance is a two-way street and just like your leisure time can leak into your workplace, it can go the other way around too.
Ensure you give yourself breaks and don’t feel the need to work every hour you spend in your home.
It is also advisable to remove yourself from the workspace during breaks. Perhaps go for a walk, or just get up and stretch the legs.
This will help stop the dreaded cabin fever and will assist you in organizing your day more efficiently.
Do: Eat a healthy lunch
Do not: Continuously snack on junk food
The fact that you don’t have to pay expensive prices to eat out for your lunch break is another key advantage of working from home.
At the same time, you should be careful, because in your home you know where the snacks are kept!
Of course, everything in moderation is a good policy and we all enjoy a bit of indulgence every now and again, but as previously stated, it’s important to keep the balance between work and home life.
Do: Dress for Work
Do not: Stay in your pajamas all day
If you feel ready for work, then you’re more likely to have a productive day.
That is just common sense and one way to feel more ready for work is to get dressed for the job you’re doing.
The temptation to stay in your sweatpants or pajamas can be overwhelming, but you should dress for the job at hand as you’ll feel more prepared.
Of course, you can have exceptions… being able to stay in your pjs the odd day is an advantage of working from home that should be embraced... just not regularly!
Do: Have the right equipment
Do not: Have a “that will be fine attitude”
When working from home, it is essential that you have the right tech.
Your wi-fi is no longer just for browsing and Netflix, so ensure your speeds are fast enough to get your work done.
Also, if you’re going to being making conference calls, ensure you have the equipment that makes this possible. If you’re working from home, you still want to give the impression of professionalism to your shareholders.
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