Working Remotely During COVID-19

With the current news of COVID-19 affecting so many businesses and people being encouraged (and even required) to work from home, it’s a timely topic to discuss how to remain productive in a new environment. It might sound like working remotely is easy, but there are definite challenges when it comes to prioritizing your time. The new normal may come with feelings of isolation so it’s important to stay “in touch.” Here are a few of my tips to help the transition go smoothly.

Locate Like-Minded People Online

There are plenty of opportunities to reach out to people who are working in your field, offering advice from blogs and social media and encouraging interaction. You can make great friends with people, virtually, that will benefit you emotionally, socially and professionally. From a weekly connection to a daily podcast, jump in and get involved.

Join Forces With Complimentary Talent

During this time when people are working from home or with limited contact with others, reach out and share opportunities. Create a collective team that you can bounce ideas off of, and refer business to each other. Provide informal training to those who could benefit from some updated skills. You might be able to teach an established firm about how to take their training online.

Learn Something New

This is the perfect time to invest in yourself. You don’t have to spend a lot of money – take an online course on something you have always wanted to learn more about. Or, take advantage of websites or online videos where you can pick up a new skill at your convenience. From learning how to code to learning how to cook, you can find anything you are looking for at the click of a button.

Get Out of Your Pajamas

You will feel more productive when you are dressed for the day. While it might be tempting to stay in your pj’s when you don’t intend to see anyone during the course of a workday, your self-esteem will take a hit if you don’t “show up” as a talented pro.

Stick to a Daily Routine

When you are working from home, some people may naturally assume you have more time in your day to chat, babysit or make a favorite meal for a friend. All of these tasks are nice, but not conducive to a productive workday. Create a schedule and adhere to it as closely as possible. Set your alarm to wake up at the regular time and conduct your day accordingly. It’s not a regular work schedule during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it’s most helpful to schedule your time as customarily as possible.

Create a Dedicated Workspace

You may find yourself working among toy trucks and loads of laundry, but your clients don’t have to know about it. For your own peace of mind, create an area in your home where you can manage a laptop and focus your attention on work. It can be a small sitting area in your spare room or the kitchen table. You will probably need a plug to charge your cell and laptop.

Don’t Isolate Yourself

You may not be going out often as before, but human interaction is still essential. Make a point of reaching out to people who inspire you and give you comfort. Drop a note in the mail or send an email to a friend. Make a daily call to your mom in the nursing home and communicate with people who are working diligently in your life to make it as comfortable as possible during these trying times.

You may also like Staying Healthy at the Office (and Beyond). For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest,  Instagram and Twitter.