Working Remotely? 5 Tips for Being More Efficient and Productive

As thousands of companies around the world made the switch to remote work, it took time for employees to adjust to working from home full-time. Below we're offering five useful tips you can use to make the most of your new office space. 

Tip #1: Set Up a Workspace

Try to create a designated “office” - a place where you can work with minimal distraction. This could be a spare bedroom, dining room, etc. If it’s not possible to separate yourself from others during the workday, make sure your roommates or family members respect your work area, wherever it may be a table, couch, etc. Remind others in your household of your designated working hours to maximize your time with as few distractions as possible. 

Tip #2: Pay Attention to Your Time

It can be easy to work late into the night, especially when there isn’t a physical office building to leave. Unless you have a tight deadline or urgent task at hand, try to work the same hours that you would normally if you were at the office. Practice making an intentional effort to end the workday at a reasonable time. Turn off your computer, leave the room you were working in and do whatever you need to in order to physically and mentally separate yourself from work.

Make time for scheduled breaks throughout the workday where you can get up and stretch or walk around. This will help you feel better both physically and mentally throughout the day.

Tip #3: Dress “Professionally”

While you don’t need to put on a suit or slacks like you would wear at the office, it’s still important to get dressed in some fashion every day. Make sure your clothes are presentable since you will likely be on calls and video chats with coworkers or clients. While it’s tempting, try not to simply roll out of bed and start working. And when possible, do not work from your bed. It’s important to separate where you sleep from where you work.

Tip #4: Take Time for One-On-One Check-Ins

Even if it’s only for five minutes, it’s still important to have a quick check-in with your coworkers, employees or managers. It helps everyone feel as though they’re on the same page and still connected with one another. 

Tip #5: Ask for Feedback

It’s important to ensure that everyone, yourself included, is adapting well to working remotely. If you’re a manager or boss, check in with your employees and ask what you can do to make their lives easier. If you’re an employee, ask your manager if you’re meeting their expectations in regards to communication and productivity.

It can be hard to work remotely at first, especially if it is something that you are not used to. Let these tips be a guide for creating a successful work environment for you and your coworkers. 

Fox Financial Group is a family-owned comprehensive financial services firm committed to helping you achieve your long-term financial goals - even in challenging times like the first half of 2022.  You can reach us at 636-534-7252 or info@foxfinancialgrp.com. You can also click on this Calendly link to schedule a free consultation with Jay Fox. We would love to serve you and your family!