7 tips and tricks for productive work in the home office
In times of pandemic, working at home has become more of a focus. But for things to run smoothly, there needs to be a structure and basic home office rules. This is the only way to avoid distractions and other problems so that the result is right in the end. With our 7 tips you lead your work at home to success.
1. set up a permanent workstation for yourself
Make sure you have a permanent workspace in your home. The couch, bed or in front of the TV would not be a good idea – the law also provides for a real workplace. They are used to relaxing and unwinding in these places. It is important to have an ergonomic and comfortable chair and an undisturbed atmosphere to work productively.
2. provide for functioning technology
Make sure you have a permanent workspace in your home. The couch, bed or in front of the TV would not be a good idea – the law also provides for a real workplace. They are used to relaxing and unwinding in these places. It is important to have an ergonomic and comfortable chair and an undisturbed atmosphere to work productively.
3. structure your day.
Don’t start work “sometime” tomorrow. Disciplinedly set the same time each day to start your tasks. To avoid jeopardizing the work-life balance, the same applies to the end of the workday. Caution: For many employees, private life in the home office mixes with everyday work and causes conflicts with family or partners. Because it is precisely the change in rhythm that throws many off balance
4. maintain social ties and communication
Meeting a colleague at the coffee machine, having a quick chat in the hallway, or eating together in the cafeteria: Of course, none of this is possible in a home office. Even if you don’t notice it at first glance: Social interaction with work colleagues is a part of the working day that should not be underestimated. There are many modern communication tools to stay in touch with your team or colleagues. Of course, whether this is pure e-mail or whether you use phone calls, instant messaging services or video chats to get in touch with your colleagues or business partners is something everyone has to figure out best for themselves. Why not take a coffee break via video chat using Microsoft Teams or Zoom?
5. do not neglect your breaks even in the home office.
Take breaks. A one-hour lunch break is a perfect energy booster to get your head back on track. However, make sure you have some regularity and keep an eye on the clock. It is recommended to follow the guidelines, as it is required in a normal employment.
6. avoid distractions
Distractions lurk everywhere at home. Even if it’s hard for you, try to avoid contact with family members or partners during work hours and clearly signal that you are unresponsive. An important tip: Put your smartphone aside to avoid being distracted by incoming messages. Often the thought “just take a quick look” turns into 10, 15, 30 minutes.
7. set daily goals
Set daily goals and to-do lists for each day in the home office. This helps you focus on the things that matter and gives you the opportunity to measure what it has already done in your own home. Do the unpleasant and difficult tasks first, the routine tasks at the end. Set the goals for the next day already at the end of the working day. This makes it easier for you to start your day in the morning.
