6 Simple Ways to Increase Your Productivity While Working from Home

In the wake of an ongoing global pandemic the nature of how, and where, we work is changing. Circumstances that were originally aimed at keeping people safe have become standard practice. While working from home is nothing completely new, we’re starting to see more companies opt to continue operating remotely despite the world opening back up.

While time has passed since the start of our “new normal”, we thought it would be a great idea to reiterate a few ways to be more productive while working from home.

1. Establish A Dedicated Office Space

For many people, especially those new to remote work, the first thought is that you’ll be able to work from anywhere with ease. While there is truth to this idea, the best way to stay productive in a remote environment is to establish a dedicated workspace. Maybe the kitchen table works for you or perhaps reclaiming the spare bedroom as an office space will prove most efficient. Wherever you choose to work, ensure it is free from too many outside distractions, quiet, and comfortable.

2. Set a Routine

While it seems like a no-brainer, setting up a daily work routine (and sticking to it) can often fall by the wayside when you’re working from home. However, it is likely one of the most important tips to a successful remote work environment. Set a course for your day where you’re carving out time for checking emails, attending meetings, working on projects, etc. Your routine should also include what you plan to do each morning before work and each evening afterward, as well as, when you plan to take breaks and eat lunch.

Initiating a routine will help increase your productivity by setting clear goals for each day. A routine also guarantees that tasks like de-cluttering your inbox don’t take too much time out of your day and away from more important things.

3. Take Breaks & Get Fresh Air

Working from home often means no more commute or having to go out for lunch every day, which is great when you consider all the money you’re saving on necessities like food and gas. However, those aspects of the workday allow for fresh air and mental breaks whether you realize it or not. With this in mind, make sure you’re fitting time for breaks during your work day.

Beyond taking time away from your computer, it’s important to remember how good fresh air is for your mind and body. If it’s a nice day, don’t hesitate to walk outside during one of your breaks and get some fresh air and Vitamin D. You’ll find that you are far more energized throughout the day, thus, more productive.

4. Take Time Off

Working from home can boost your sense of a positive work-life balance, but it shouldn’t be confused with taking time off. Just because you’re not in the corporate office, doesn’t mean you aren’t working. I think a common assumption is that working from home is “easier” or “laid back”, etc. But the reality is quite the opposite. Working from home often requires a greater level of discipline, motivation, and responsibility compared to in-office work simply because you don’t have others present to help hold you accountable. All of this to say that when you feel like you need a day off, take it. Working from home indefinitely and, for many, permanently, is no vacation in and of itself.

5. Over Communicate

Ever heard someone say, “there are no stupid questions?” We like to think this concept applies to those of you working remotely…except it applies to everything. What we mean by this is that there’s really no such thing as too much communication when you’re working from home. Have a question? Ask. Need clarification? Ask. Need to check in with a co-worker? Go for it. Want an update? Again, ASK. Seeing the trend? And, if all else fails, never shy away from giving someone a call. On the other hand, if you’re on the receiving end of these questions don’t get flustered or frustrated. Instead, over communicate. Be detailed in your responses to emails or chats from your co-workers. Check in with your supervisor or team with updates throughout the day, so on and so forth. I think we can all agree that asking a “stupid question” in order to gain the needed clarification and successfully complete your daily tasks is much better than not communicating effectively. More time communicating means less time fixing unnecessary errors, hence, PRODUCTIVITY!

6. Don’t Hesitate to Ask for What You Need.

Perhaps, this one seems obvious, but it’s worth mentioning because so much of the time remote workers are trying to function as they would in the office with a fraction of the equipment. Who’s to blame? Sure, we can point fingers at the company for not automatically sending workers home with necessary equipment, but who is to say that your HR department realizes what is needed for you to work at your best. It’s important in this situation to remember you’re responsible for your success. Simply let your company know what materials are needed for you to perform at your best.

Summary

Working from home is nothing new, but it’s also a substantial change especially when you consider the circumstances of a global pandemic and all. The most important things to remember if you’re going to be working remotely, now and into the future, is that you know how you work best! Having a comfortable, distraction-free workspace will help separate your work life from your home life, while setting a routine will ensure that you get into the right mindset each day. Don’t forget to take breaks to prevent from getting burnt out, and don’t hesitate to take time off! Finally, make sure you’re supplying an open line of communication to your co-workers and have access to any equipment you need that will help you to be successful.

Interested in more tips to help you advance in your Salesforce career, check them out, here.

Get in touch with one of our expert Salesforce recruiters today and chat about some of our remote Salesforce opportunities!

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