If you’re not a veteran of working remotely, these easy-to-implement tips will keep you top of game.

For some of us, working remotely is nothing new. Having worked from home for more than 10 years, I can personally vouch for the pros and cons. But for many workers who have taken the remote working plunge due to COVID, the challenges can be unsettling. Here are 5 easy ways to tackle the challenge of working remotely.

1. Self-Care

Give yourself time to adjust because it can be a big transition for many people. Take breaks often enough that you don’t get stymied and overwhelmed. Move to a separate area or take a short walk outside. Use that exercise bike. Be sure you’re ergonomically suited. Sitting in the wrong kind of chair or positioning yourself incorrectly at the computer can take its toll.

2. Communication

Overcommunicate rather than the opposite. A good rule of thumb is if you question whether your colleague will want to know something, share it. Be fully aware of your employer’s remote work policies. If your employer has an employee handbook, now is a great time to read it. If you’re a manager or supervisor, make sure your team knows how to reach you. Set expectations, so the team is working collaboratively. Promptly return emails and calls and see to it that issues are resolved quickly.

3. Morale

Stay aligned with your company culture. Make time every day to text with colleagues, check in personally, share stories, and ask how people are doing. Dress and groom professionally each day. Your morning prep routine plays a large role in determining your mindset for the day. Avoid working in your pajamas all day, One-on-one check-ins can boost morale and remember to ask for input from colleagues regarding the remote scenario.

4. Security

Virtual private networks, or VPNs, have become the new lifeline for many businesses, extending encrypted networks to our homes. It’s critical to have endpoint integrity checking and strong authentication in place at this stage once the VPN is in place and active. Employees who have to learn new devices and applications will turn to their phones even more than usual because they feel familiar. Get ahead of mobile threats before dealing with other devices. Be aware of malicious apps that are easily mistaken for the real thing.

5. Tools

Your computer is your primary tool when working remotely, whether it’s a laptop or a desktop. Not only is it critical for performing your job, it’s your main source of communicating with your team. If your team is using Zoom or Google Meets for virtual meetings, make sure you’re set up with the software, speaker, and microphone.

If you’re looking for an alternative to working remotely, consider the many advantages of Tech Culture McKinney, where coworking office space takes on a whole new meaning. Discover the advantages of innovative design, technology at your fingertips, and others who seek the camaraderie of other progressive thinkers. We’re located just off Interstate 75 in McKinney, Texas. Come by for a visit or take a virtual tour. We would love to meet you!