How to Work Remotely?

Working remotely is not like a typical brick-and-mortar job. It requires a different way of meeting work requirements, without having to be at the company's office location. Furthermore, work is maneuvered at home or simply completed away from the company's office.

Remote work was first introduced in the 1970s and increased in popularity during the 1990s. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 caused a major shift towards remote work, making it more mainstream. Welcome to the 21st century way of working. Remote working can be both exciting and a new challenge for those who are not used to it. Let's expand on how to get started.

#1 - Get a Remote Job

In order to easily find a remote job, you will have to mention "remote" in your job search. Most job boards now include "remote" in their job location search bar. There are job boards solely focused on remote work, like We Work Remotely and Remote.co. Many remote positions don't require experience directly in working remotely but rather focus on the actual job descriptions and credential requirements. The hiring process may also be conducted remotely, with virtual interviews and online onboarding. Beware of employment scams that ask for direct payment to do a remote job.

#2 - Establish a Home Office

While you are looking for a legitimate remote job, you need to establish a home office. Wherever you plan on working remotely, you must have a designated space for it, also when you're traveling while working remotely. Whether it's a full office or a space on a table, your designated area should be neat and with minimal distractions and little to no background noise. If you don't live alone, then you will need to establish boundaries with those that live with you. They need to know and acknowledge your workspace and agree not to disturb you while you're in it, unless for emergencies. The basic equipment for working remotely is a laptop, webcam, computer headset, cell phone, printer/scanner, and ethernet and/or Wi-Fi. Depending on the type of remote job you are looking to obtain, you may be mailed all the required equipment, or you will have to purchase them yourself.

"All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. But all play and no work makes him something worse." – Samuel Smiles

#3 - Follow Company Policies for Remote Workers

Companies with remote positions often include policies for remote workers. These policies may focus on communication expectations, technology and security requirements, productivity expectations, and remote employee well-being. As a remote worker, it's important to set a work schedule, if it's not already mandated. Companies may also want to maintain a company culture for remote workers. This helps to improve your well-being while working remotely. Being granted a more flexible work environment is a bonus.

#4 - Maintain Communications

It is vital to maintain communications with your employer and co-workers as a remote worker. Because you are not at the brick-and-mortar office; therefore, they don't see you or hear you and don't know how you're feeling, unless they or you reach out remotely. Your employer will explain their communication requirements and expectations. Many recommend that remote employees communicate through telephone, email, chat messaging, and virtual meetings. You have to be proactive in communication to avoid isolation, feeling ignored, and avoid miscommunications. You will most likely experience technical difficulties while communicating remotely, but that is why Help Desk and IT Support are also needed by your employer.

#5 - Work-Life Balance

It was mentioned earlier to have a work schedule, if not already mandated by your employer. Without a designated work schedule, personal life situations can easily interfere with work, and vice versa. For that reason, it takes self-discipline to be a remote worker because you're not at the brick-and-mortar location where you are more likely to be micro-managed. You need to set a work schedule and have appropriate breaks and personal time. Maintaining a good work-life balance leads to reduced stress, improved mental health, improved physical health, increased productivity, more job satisfaction, and a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Suggest or Participate in In-Person Events

Remote working may not be suitable for you if you're not okay with not always having in-person social interactions. Although, some remote jobs do require travel to a designated work site, many others are strictly virtual. The virtual meetings may not be socially satisfying for some, so in-person events need to be suggested. If you are able to attend them when they are made available to you, then participate in them. Human beings need a social life, including introverts.

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