COVID-19 (Coronavirus) in the US
As of March 20, there are 15,219 confirmed cases of COVID-19 throughout the US and 201 deaths reported. Of these cases, 229 are travel-related, 245 are due to close-contact, and 3,752 are still under investigation. These figures have been reported by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Because of the rapid spread of the virus, the White House has issued new and mandatory requests for Americans to stay home from both work and school for the next 15 days at least, regardless of previous exposure or travel. President Trump also recommends that citizens avoid gatherings of over 10 people altogether, as well as unnecessary travel or dining out. Social distancing is currently viewed as the most effective method of ‘flattening the curve’ or slowing the spread of the virus. Thus, the vast majority of US companies have implemented teleworking or work from home policies, effective immediately.
Best Practices For Working From Home
Safety in the workplace is essential, especially in uncertain times such as these. US employers must ensure the workplace is safe and measures are implemented to keep employees safe and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic. As remote work or working from home is becoming the current norm, companies must transition quickly to give their staff the means and right tools to work from home.
This blog article will provide valuable information and tips on how to effectively navigate the unique challenges that come with working remotely or working from home. It is essential that companies stay connected, productive and maintain a strong work culture.
Best Practices for Working from Home
For many, working from home is a novel concept. To maintain the same output of work as you would be providing in a regular office environment, there are some habits and routines that must be cultivated. Addressing the potential pitfalls of remote work is important and paying attention to lessons from other’s experiences will help drive your own success and productivity. Here are some best practices to follow for working from home.
Work the same hours
Maintaining a work-life balance is important for lone workers or remote workers who are new to working from home. Setting a schedule and sticking to your regular work hours is important in upholding structure and discipline. The advantage of working remotely or working from home is that your commute to the office has been reduced to 10 seconds or less.
Develop a morning routine and follow it
How we start our day will directly impact our performance and happiness going forward. A relaxing morning routine can be a great way to ease into the day. Spend the time that you would have otherwise been commuting reading a book, meditating, writing in your journal, exercising, or stretching. Some regular remote workers even like to dress like they are going into an office to kick-start their day.
Set specific rules for working from home
While some of you may share your home environment with family members, kids, or roommates, it’s important to set ground rules with other people around you who share your space. Eliminate distractions where you can. Set clear rules that will preserve your productivity and give you the best opportunity for success while working from home.
Dedicate a space for you to work
A dedicated workspace that is located away from areas in your home where you normally operate is a great way to keep your personal life separate. Physical separation is important because it will allow you to take breaks without being constantly reminded of work deadlines and tasks. Visit the section below to view more on setting up a comfortable and productive work-from-home station.
Take Breaks
Being isolated can definitely take a psychological toll on a remote worker's mental health. It’s important to leave your desk and take a break from your computer screen periodically. It’s a good idea to refrain from using your mobile phone on breaks, as this time will truly allow you to clear and refresh your mind.
Get Fresh Air
Lunch breaks are a great opportunity to claim some time outside. Take a walk in your nearby park, beach, or boardwalk. During this time, it’s important to continue to practice social distancing. Visiting a location outside where there are very few people is a good way to get some fresh air safely.
Always Communicate in with your team and managers
While working from home, establishing a check-in procedure is a must. It is especially important to maintain regular contact with co-workers and managers. Checking-in can be anything from a planned phone call, an email, or a text. Apps that provide automated check-in services, like Scatterling, enable workers to proactively check-in regularly. This sets a timer that will count down to the next scheduled check-in when workers will once again confirm their safety.
Helpful Links:
Know the facts about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and help stop the spread of rumors: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/share-facts.html
Harvard Business Review: Is It Time to Let Employees Work from Anywhere?: https://hbr.org/2019/08/is-it-time-to-let-employees-work-from-anywhere
Pandemic Information - Working & Hiring Arrangements: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pandemic-information/work-hiring-arrangements/telework-guidance/telework-emergency-preparedness/
Testing for COVID-19 - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/testing.html
The Ultimate Guide to Improve your Home Office Setup and Boost your Productivity from Porch.com: https://porch.com/advice/ultimate-guide-improve-home-office-setup-boost-productivity