In an effort to #flattenthecurve, businesses and organizations have moved toward remote work operations for the foreseeable future. Switching from an office workplace to a work-from-home setting can be tricky to navigate. However, maintaining productivity during this self-isolation period is possible with a few best practices. Here are some helpful tips on how our team stays focused while #workingfromhome. 

1. Establish a work schedule and continue your morning routine when feasible.

Treat each workday as if you were heading into the office. Follow your normal routine, wake up at the same time, get dressed and start your morning ritual whether that consists of having coffee in the morning or making a sit-down breakfast. Set a work schedule for yourself to better manage your time and deadlines.

2. Designate a work station or area in your home.

Find an area in your home and officially designate it as a place to conduct business. This can be an already established home office or a makeshift desk at your dining table.  The most important part is that both you and other household members become accustomed to it being an area for work. 

3. Factor in distractions and set ground rules.

Part of the challenge of working from home is dealing with the presence of other household members and distractions. You may have additional responsibilities such as children or pets that you can no longer physically separate yourself from. You may also have to face a new level of noise pollution. In these scenarios, it helps to set ground rules to ensure you can get work done. Communicate important meetings with household members and come up with a plan that will get you through the workday with limited interruptions. 

4. Use video/telecommunications software to virtually meet with team members and clients

Although we are currently unable to have in-person meetings, technology has given us the capability to have important conversations virtually. Video conferencing is highly encouraged when possible because it enables more active participation than a phone call. If a video conference is not possible, the phone is always the next best choice for meetings and appointments. Determine which software works best for your organization and adjust your calendar meetings accordingly. 

5. Schedule Breaks and take them 

Working at home can easily turn into working all the time. If proper boundaries are not set, your health and well-being could be affected.  Avoid burnout by scheduling time to rest, and taking your scheduled breaks in their entirety. 

These are just a few ways to ensure a productive workday at home. However, different lifestyles require alternative accommodations. Determine what works best for you and your household.