The Do's And Don'ts Of Working From Home

Working in the comfort of your home sounds like an attractive idea. Nobody’s there to keep an eye on your work. You are free to take a lunch break whenever you wish. Many people who have been freelancers for some time now wouldn’t entirely agree on the comfort part. In other words, working from home is not all that cracked up to be.

However, there are simple tips that can help turn your professional life around and boost your work-efficiency at home. Here are some that a freelancer should follow:

Do mind your manners

No matter if you are working remotely or in an office downtown, make yourself presentable at any time. It’s important to keep a certain level of professionalism, even when dealing with your clients via Skype. Do not have a video conference if you are still in your pajamas or having breakfast because your client could be put off by the lack of good manners. This will help you preserve a professional image with the client and spare you some stress. When dealing with colleagues and you can’t be bothered with a video call, get things done with a phone call or e-mail.

Don’t get disorganized

The key to being productive definitely lies in the organization of your time and space. Keep yourself organized by using simple apps on your smartphone or computer such as calendars, to-do lists, and notes. By doing so, half of the work will be done. Check out some handy tools to improve your day-to day routine e.g. Google Docs. Treat the place where you work as your real office. The office door opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM. This will help you achieve the balance between work and free time.

Do get comfy in your workplace  

While telecommuting, it’s most likely that you will spend more than eight hours in your study every day.  This could result in our eyes going weary and feeling constantly under pressure. To prevent this, make a habit of opening the windows regularly. Some fresh air will help you concentrate. In addition, you can try redoing your study as to feel more comfortable while working. Colors could have a great impact on your productivity, take for example the recent advice of ColourLife Painting Company Services and paint the room in cool colors such as blue or green. Blue is best stress-reducing color, while green shall make you feel re-energized.

Don’t let distractions get the best of you

For many freelancers, to separate their business and private comes as a difficulty. Not to mention if their business is located right in their home. Places where we usually like to spend quality time with the family like the living room or kitchen aren't always the best solution for an office. You need some privacy to get the work done, so choose the room that is off limits. It can be your bedroom or even garage. Consider using a headset for your Skype meetings. You'll be more focused during the meeting and won't be bothered with backgrounds noises.

Don’t waste precious time

Time is money and your time is valuable. Set your working hours straight and try to keep up with your schedule. Don’t get caught up with house chores during work. If you cannot balance the two, hire a maid or share the household chores with your partner. If a client’s project is not due for a couple of days, and you have some spare time, don't wait the last day to finish it. Moreover, working to meet your deadline under pressure can take its toll on the precision and quality of your work.

At the top of your game

Working from home does have its advantages. On the other hand, all the perks of working remotely can perish, if we are neither motivated nor self-disciplined. Organization and professionalism are the key. Following these simple, yet extremely useful tips, you will be able to stay at the top of your game and get the most out of your workplace.