Many people will have been asked to work from home if their job allows because of the recent government measures to slow the spread of the COVID-19 Virus. It’s a great opportunity to find out how this arrangement works for you and your organisation, and whether it is something that could continue.
Technologies have advanced to a level that can facilitate working away from the traditional office environment. These can include efficient and effective internet connection, improved security measures, cloud storage facilities and online meeting and collaboration facilities.
Many people of working age now have internet connection in their homes and feel comfortable using technology.
There are some advantages for both employers and employees to working from home.
For employers;
- Often staff will like this way of working, so they will be less stressed and more productive,
- Costs of office space, furniture and utilities may be reduced,
- Absenteeism is less because people are more likely to continue to work to at least some degree if they don’t have to leave their home.
For employees;
- Greater flexibility in their work day,
- Reduced or eliminated travel costs,
- Reduced work day hours due to no travel.
Some of the things to think about are;
- People may need to collaborate on projects so good, reliable and secure online facilities need to be provided,
- Some people may miss contact with others, so it might be beneficial to arrange some office days where everyone can meet up (when practicable),
- Some people may struggle to organise themselves or be distracted by things at home, so it might be beneficial to provide them with some time management training.
Some tips for successful working from home are;
- Get up and get dressed as if you were going to work, it feels more professional,
- Have a dedicated space for your work so you can keep everything together and you can associate it with the work mindset,
- Set your goals each day and for each working week and check periodically that you are on track,
- Set yourself a timetable for each day so that you complete your tasks within your work hours,
- Plan when you will need to collaborate with other workers or take part in meetings so that you are ready and prepared in the same way you would be if you were working from an office,
- Take regular breaks,
- If you are required to answer telephone calls at home, make sure there is a quiet place to listen and respond,
- If possible, have a rota for telephone duties with colleagues so that you are not tied to the phone for the whole of your working day,
- Make sure you protect any confidential or sensitive documents, either in hard copy or on a device.
The current crisis we find ourselves in may change the future of business for the better, and provide a healthier environment for us all to work in.
If you have questions about anything from information security to maintaining your certifications and accreditations, contact us.
