Working outside a traditional work environment comes with many advantages. It provides independence, flexibility, and freedom. However, it comes with a downside if you misuse this freedom.
If you want to be successful working from home, here are five things you need to know:
Create a Space Specifically For Your Work
A space designed by you especially for your office work will not only help you psychologically, but you will also be able to deduct it from your taxes. When you have a separate desk for your work, you will be able to focus better. You will not be distracted by the daily domestic activities happening around you. Your full concentration will be your deadlines and targets.
Remember, you must use this “office space” only for office work such as invoicing, ordering supplies, phone calls, meetings, etc.
Make a schedule and stick to it!
When you’re working from home, you have the liberty of being able to work anytime and anywhere. Some of us get tempted to laze around and procrastinate. If you’re working from home, create a schedule for yourself and follow it religiously. Do not misuse the liberty you have.
You have to be very well-organized, have excellent time management skills and be self-motivated to work from home on a daily basis. Not everyone has the discipline that it takes for work from home. So be prepared for what you’re about to take up. If you cannot stick to a strict schedule, don’t opt for work from home.
Realize That Your Promotion Opportunities Might Be Foiled and Do Something About It
It is obvious that your bosses think that you can’t manage other employees when you are working from home. In a way, your bosses are right. Working from home can be beneficial for both the company and the employees in many ways, but it can result in invisibility that can lower your chances of promotions and career advancements. To tackle such a situation, you have to make an effort to show your employers your worth. Try to show up for office gatherings and important meetings on a regular basis.
Bring Out the Extrovert in You
Since you are working from home, you will hardly get an opportunity to build workplace relationships and meet new people in office. This might come as a disadvantage to you because networking is very important.
For instance, instead of sending emails or texts to your co-workers, call them up. It can be a bit time-consuming, but it will help you build new bonds, and you might even get to catch up on the office gossip.
Use Social Media for Networking
It is essential for you to stay active on LinkedIn groups that can connect you to your employers, past employers, Alma matter, etc. Comment on posts posted by your colleagues and employers. Not only does it show your interest and expertise, but it also gives you a virtual satisfaction of being connected.
You do not get a chance to make many connections in person since you are working from home. Social networking sites like LinkedIn provide you with a great platform to explore more options and make new connections.
Therefore, make it a point to get out of the house and schedule a lunch or coffee with your colleagues or bosses. Since you get to work from home, your colleagues are likely to be a little resentful and envious of your freedom. Make sure there is no bad blood between you by making an effort to interact with them.
