Over the past year, it seems like we have all gotten used to these new work from home (“WFH”) arrangements. While individuals and businesses have undoubtedly begun to embrace these new arrangements as the norm, there are obvious rooms for improvement in regards to how we can all maximize our productivity. In this article, we look to provide tips on how everyone can maximise their productivity while we continue to WFH.
1. Enhance Your Company’s Digital Infrastructure
Social distancing and WFH arrangements can make it seem like we are not staying connected with our colleagues – this doesn’t have to be the case.
Embracing communication tools like Zoom and collaboration tools like Asana can make it easy to check in with your coworkers and remind each other of how your work is contributing to the big picture. In addition, these tools can also be used to arrange client meetings! Given that client meetings provide businesses with invaluable opportunities to develop long-lasting relationships, having these tools available is vital for businesses to succeed!
Cloud-based services are also creating virtual workspaces to complement the traditional office setting. In recent years, many have experienced the benefit of transitioning their internal work infrastructure to the cloud – WFH arrangements have thus accelerated the adoption of this new solution as it allows for greater flexibility in how their business can operate.
Cloud-based services also offer users the ability to digitally store, access, deliver and process data across several linked devices. It allows users to share information and resources anywhere and on any device and has been utilized by small firms to scale their business without spending a significant amount of investment in their IT infrastructure.
2. Work Regular Hours
Sometimes when we’re working from home, it becomes easy to lose track of how much time we spend working. Sticking to regular office hours and structuring your day accordingly will help you accomplish your tasks as per usual.
However, sometimes it’s easy to get lost in how much time you’re spending, as such utilizing HR tools like Workstem or Talenox is a good way to keep track of how much time you’re actually spending on work and will give your team more visibility on your work flow.
3. Don’t Mix Your Personal Life with your Work Life
WFH makes it difficult to separate your personal and work responsibilities. During your work hours, you should do your best to separate yourself from any potential distractions in your home. For instance, don’t do regular chores that you wouldn’t typically do during office hours as it will take away from your time and divert your focus.
4. Choose a Dedicated Workspace
Do your best to make sure you’re not working where you typically relax – it’s not a good thing to identify your bed as a work area as this makes it more difficult to relax when you’re supposed to be off work.
We suggest setting up an area in your home where you will have less distractions. It’s okay to experiment with different areas in your home as long as the area energises you and keeps you focused on your work.
5. Take Regular Breaks
When we’re in the office, it’s easy to have a quick chat with colleagues to take your mind off work. These conversations are healthy and help maintain a balance to your daily routine. Unfortunately these conversations don’t happen when you’re WFH.
Make sure you give yourself the opportunity to have regular breaks, even when WFH. Try taking your usual one-hour lunch break away from your laptop and phone!
6. Call to Action
At the FastLane Group, we understand what tools it takes to help businesses grow. We see ourselves as business builders and are always looking for new ways to help entrepreneurs and small businesses, including helping them adopt various cloud-based business tools that will make it easier for them to grow their business.
Whether you want to learn about cloud-based accounting solutions like Xero, or HR / Payroll tools such as Workstem or Talenox, please contact the FastLane Group!