Maybe you’ve heard about the remote work revolution. Maybe you’ve even asked your manager to let you work from home every so often. Or maybe you’ve never worked from anywhere but an office, and you’re nervous about having to work from home.
Moving to a remote model is a big change. How do you replace taps on the shoulder and shared lunches? What’s it like having a team meeting over video call instead of in one room?
Any kind of change comes with questions, so we’re here with answers: tips and best practices from seasoned remote workers and HR admins that will guide you through this transition.
- Take advantage of your new normal: Not going into the office can have its perks. No morning commute means more time to eat breakfast (or sleep). No evening rush hour gives you more time to relax, and maybe even make it to that yoga class.
- Stick to your work routine: When you’re working from home, you’re still at work…just not in the office. Try and stay on a routine that’s close to your office routine; for example, if you usually eat lunch at 12 p.m., stick to that! You can even video chat your teammates to get that lunchtime roundup feeling.
- Be open about your new schedule: If you have roommates or a partner, sync up with them about your new schedule. Let them know when you have calls, when you need quiet time, and when you’ll be signing off.
- Establish a dress code: Working from home doesn’t mean pajamas and bedhead. To feel like you’re at work, dress the part. (Please wear pants, even if no one can see you)
- No such thing as too many pings: Don’t be afraid to reach out to your teammates more than usual. When working remotely, it’s better to over-communicate than under-communicate. If you feel like something is getting lost in translation, a short video call might be the solution.
- Take breaks, and remember to sign off: Working from home doesn’t have to mean that you should work whenever you’re home. Just like we recommend signing on at your regular time—we also recommend you sign off. And, just like you would take a coffee break (or two) in the office, take some time for yourself. Go for a walk, call a friend. Take the time to clear your head.
This is a scary time, but it’s not the end. Working from home has lots of pros, so don’t be embarrassed to take advantage of them! Embrace your new schedule and the freedoms that come with it. Take the time to meet your teammates outside of the office—ask them to show you their home offices (and their pets).
And, from a seasoned WFH vet, here’s a video call pro tip: if your internet is funky on a video call, turn off your camera. That usually helps.
