Create an organized workspace away from any windows and separated from the rest of your home to help minimize distractions.
This work area should have enough space for a laptop/computer, a keyboard, and a mouse. It should also have reliable internet or wifi access.
For those of you who will be participating in conference calls or video training, consider your background and attempt to avoid:
- Direct sunlight in the camera lens
- Messy areas
- Private areas of your home
- Inappropriate imagery/posters
Always wear work-appropriate clothing. You never know when you’ll have a surprise video conference call.
Ensure you know your work schedule and start time. Grab your snacks to avoid stepping away. The more time you spend in your home office, the more you are likely to get tasks done.
Communication
You should remain in constant communication with your Team Leader and co-workers.
Unless you are advised otherwise for your program, Google Hangouts will be your primary method of communicating with your Team Leader.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your Team Leader is aware of anything that may affect your day-to-day task completion. Ensure the following situations are shared with your leader:
- Attendance or Punctuality Concerns or Scheduling Conflicts
- System/Internet Outages (We have assistance contacts available!)
- Stepping away from your workstation for any reason (including lunches,
bathroom breaks, etc.)
Create Boundaries
Ensure that your work area is quiet and free of distractions.
Speak with your family/housemates about boundaries that apply while you're working. Let them know that you need their help and cooperation to limit any distractions throughout your workday.
Avoid Distractions & Interruptions
Do your best to avoid getting distracted by friends, family members or tasks related to the home.
Avoid bringing your work into an area where others are, if possible. This will help minimize interruptions while working on tasks or participating in video calls.
Don’t Socialize
Save any personal calls for after work hours.
Avoid using social media to post about going shopping or watching movies when you're supposed to be working. (Twitter, Facebook, etc.)
Your Team Lead may also see you aren't focused on work if you post on Social Media sites.
Stay Organized
Use apps, to-do lists, calendars, and filing systems to keep yourself organized.
Tools such as Google Calendar, Google Docs, and Wedoist can help you keep track of important documents and stay on top of your to-do lists.
Summary
Transitioning to working remotely can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be.
Many people find it fun, exciting, and empowering to work from home!
You have been given a significant level of trust by 24-7 Intouch to assist with growth, and profiting from benefits that many employees don’t get to experience.
Key Takeaway Items
- Find your dedicated, quiet, distraction-free workspace. Think “work only”.
- Adhere to the best practices of working remotely included in this training.
- Reach out to your support network to help you when needed!
- 24-7 Intouch will do its best to support the technology provided to you but don’t forget your own responsibilities (access, troubleshooting, etc…).