Tips for successfully working remotely

CHARLESTON, S.C. - Working outside the office has become a reality for many. Commutes have been reduced from highway to hallway, schedules have been shifted. Doing your work outside your workplace can be challenging. It can be lonely and difficult to focus. However, it can also provide more time and flexibility for you to craft an ideal schedule. Those experiencing chronic pain or illness have the option of taking time to rest, then working during a reprieve from symptoms without taking time off. A number of states are even offering financial incentives for employees to work remotely. Some speculate that telework will continue even after COVID-19 fades. While working from home is considered a safe and flexible option, it is important to take steps to ensure it is also a productive one. 

One of the most valuable things you can do is to find or create a designated workspace.  Make sure the area is clean and free of distractions. Talk with the people you share your house with and ask them to consider your request not to be disturbed during those hours. Some people prefer a quiet work environment. Some people find white noise to be helpful. Others perform better listening to music.  Streaming services, like Spotify or Pandora, have a multitude of curated playlists filled with music to keep you motivated and focused. Experiment working with and without music and sound. Find out which works best for you. 

Try to maintain regular working hours if possible. Since you will not be spending your time physically transitioning from home to work, it is essential to do so mentally. Take a walk before you start work and as you end it. Instead of calling a friend on your ride into the office, call them as you drink your morning coffee from your porch or favorite chair. Change out of your pajamas and shower. It can be difficult not to feel like you are always on the clock when your scenery never changes. Identify some way to separate “home” time and space from “work” time and space.   

If you struggle with staying on task at home, keep a to-do list handy. It can be helpful and motivating to see exactly what you need to accomplish for the day. Include multiple breaks throughout the day.  Breaking up assignments into smaller bits can make them feel more manageable. You can set a timer to work (thirty to sixty minutes is typical) and take a short break (about five to ten minutes) after it goes off. Be sure to step away and completely remove yourself from your workspace during your breaks.  Communication is a key element of productivity.  When you are working out of the office, remember to communicate clearly and frequently. We often do not realize how many conversations we have in an unofficial capacity (watercooler chats, catching someone in the hallway, etc.).  It is better to err on the side of calling or emailing too much rather than too little.  Additionally, video calls have become a critical component of remote work. For larger meetings, remember to mute yourself and turn your camera off when logging on. However, for smaller department or one-on-one meetings, it is not necessary to mute or hide yourself upon entering. 

As we discover this new and dynamic professional landscape, let us lead with empathy and open-mindedness.  We are all adjusting and learning as we go.  Charleston County Public Library staff members are happy to help. Click here to see which library locations are open and available to provide in-person services.  With a little bit of practice and self-patience, you will be ready to take on the next steps in your future career. If you would like more information about changing careers during difficult circumstances, assistance in finding resources, tips on how to get the job-hunting process started or more, please reach out to us at CCPL by email, chat or text. You may also call us at 843-805-6930, leave a voice message, and a library staff member will return your call. Remember, you are not alone.