Tips to improve productivity while working from home

Working from home has a lot of benefits that cannot be underestimated, and remote workers have been proven to experience less stress than onsite workers and this is probably one of the perks of joining the remote workforce. However, a significant number of remote workers have observed that remote work is not without a flaw that, in the long run, has the potential to impede the growth of the company. This is the reduced productivity that has been observed in the comparison of onsite and remote workers. You might be experiencing this decreased level of productivity in your work as a remote worker, hence the reason you are reading this.

In some studies conducted on the productivity of remote workers, it was revealed that employees who are fully remote are 10% to 20% less productive than those who resume a physical structure. This is a guide that will help maximize potentials for human resources in a remote company.

Why is a remote worker likely to be less productive?

Several factors can contribute to decreased productivity among remote workers; these include:

1. Lack of structure: Without the typical office environment, you might struggle to establish a consistent routine, leading to distractions and procrastination.
2. Isolation: Remote work can be isolating, leading to feelings of loneliness and disconnection, which can affect motivation and productivity.
3. Communication challenges: Remote teams may face difficulties in effective communication, leading to misunderstandings, delays, and inefficiencies.
4. Technology issues: Dependence on technology for remote work means that technical issues, such as internet outages or software glitches, can disrupt workflow and hinder productivity.
5. Home environment: Distractions at home, such as family members, pets, or household chores, can interfere with focus and concentration.
6. Work-life balance: as a remote worker, you might still struggle to separate work from personal life, leading to burnout and decreased productivity.
7. Lack of supervision: some individuals may find it challenging to stay motivated and accountable without direct supervision from a manager or team leader.
8. Unclear expectations: remote workers may not have a clear understanding of their roles, responsibilities, or goals, which can lead to confusion and inefficiency.

10 tips to improve productivity while working remotely from home

1. Set up a defined workspace: Dedicate a specific area in your home for your work. This helps mentally separate work from leisure activities and creates a conducive environment for focus.
2. Stick to a routine. Establish a regular schedule and stick to it as closely as possible. This includes waking up, starting work, taking breaks, and ending work at consistent times each day.
3. Dress for work: Although tempting, staying in pajamas all day can negatively impact productivity. Dressing as if you were going to the office can help put you in a work-focused mindset.
4. Minimize distractions: Identify potential distractions in your environment and take steps to minimize them. This might involve setting boundaries with family members or using tools to block distracting websites.
5. Use time management techniques: Techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, time blocking, or the Eisenhower Matrix can help you structure your time and prioritize tasks effectively.
6. Communicate effectively: Stay in regular communication with your colleagues and manager. Utilize tools like email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and project management platforms to stay connected and informed.
7. Take regular breaks. Breaks are essential for maintaining productivity and avoiding burnout. Incorporate short breaks throughout your day to rest and recharge.
8. Stay organized: Keep your workspace tidy and organize your tasks using to-do lists, calendars, or project management tools. This helps you stay focused and ensures you don’t overlook important tasks.
9. Stay active: Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine to boost energy levels and overall well-being. This could be as simple as stretching, going for a walk, or doing a quick workout.
10. Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life to prevent overworking. When your work day is over, disconnect from work-related tasks and focus on leisure activities or spending time with loved ones.

As much as remote work promotes work-life balance, you might discover that the life aspect of this equation might end up being the reason your work falters and you are not able to perform as you should as a remote worker. This resource is a comprehensive guide to getting a remote job, we have thousands of remote and hybrid jobs that are open to African remote job seekers. By implementing these tips every day, you can enhance your productivity and effectiveness while working remotely from home.