News
May 25, 2020
Ins and Outs of Working from Home
As more and more stay-at-home executive orders are passed across the United States, our workforce is currently shifting to one that is depending purely on technology. According to SHRM, only 24% of U.S. employees did some or all of their work at home, which is a stark difference to the statistics as of today. With over half of America slated to be working from home according to multiple sources reporting about COVID-19, we figured it would be the perfect time to share the do’s and don’ts when it comes to conducting business remotely.
Do have conversations with your “coworkers.”
Be sure to tell those in your household of the hours that you will be working so they don’t get in the way of your productivity. By providing strict instructions on when you are working, it will lessen interruptions and uphold structure that is needed when working remotely.
Don’t start your day without a schedule.
By following guidelines that you made for yourself at the beginning of the day, you are more likely to follow through with the arranged timetable. Set aside an allotted time for five-minute breaks and a lunch hour so you don’t find yourself restless. This way, you’ll find it easier to stay focused when you hop on that important business call.
Do create a workspace in one area.
A simple set-up where you have access to your phone, computer, and other items necessary to conduct business is ideal. Taking it a step farther, human resource employees should consider utilizing an applicant tracking system (ATS) to stay on top of workforce management, including payroll and job-board posting. With all your tasks centrally located, the simplicity will stop you from getting distracted from jumping browser to browser. Atlantic utilizes an impressive multitude of applicant tracking systems and human resource management softwares including UltiPro, JazzHR, greenhouse, iCIMS, and so much more. There’s never been a better time to shake up your routine and see how more technology can enhance your workflow; if interested, reach out to our office.
Don’t let distractions get in your way.
The general rule for what constitutes a distraction: if you wouldn’t be doing it at work, don’t allow yourself to do it while working from home. It can be tempting to turn on Netflix or browse Twitter for the latest updates, but more often than not, such actions won’t yield efficiency in your assignments.
Do retain a sense of normalcy, even in times of transition.
If at all possible, make sure to transfer traditions that you follow in the office. Tend to have a sweet treat on Friday afternoon with a coworker? Don’t let working from home stop you! If you and your colleagues have the ability, hop on a virtual meeting in order to talk about your day and plan conferences on the horizon. It’s easy to get lonely, and just because times are changing doesn’t mean that your work family can’t “come home” with you.