Four Questions About Remote Work Answered

As a leader in software development outsourcing services for over a decade, we’ve witnessed the dramatic shift toward remote work during the pandemic. While many companies are just beginning to adapt, our dedicated software teams have been successfully operating remotely for years. We’ve been dealing with this pandemic for weeks now and as we continue to follow distancing and stay at home guidelines every day: it’s probably safe to say that many people who are new, to working from home might be starting to feel comfortable with it by now. Maybe even enjoying it! Considering that some experts predict remote work will become increasingly prevalent, in the future after the pandemic is over: that’s definitely a development.

However, it doesn’t imply there couldn’t be individuals, with uncertainties regarding this matter. Not the sort that can be resolved easily but maybe other significant inquiries related to the, behind the scenes aspects of remote work that should be tackled promptly now. Addressing these concerns won’t just benefit those raising them during the crisis. Also, those contemplating permanently transitioning to remote work post pandemic.

As a software development company that has operated from locations, for the ten years many individuals have reached out to us for assistance in adapting to this new way of working. Today we will address four concerns that many of them are struggling with. Addressing these issues can greatly improve the smoothness of interactions, in teamwork.

Does working from home impact one’s wellbeing?

It’s pretty clear that most folks get anxious and uneasy, with changes without needing a psychologist to tell them that much! With remote work being more of a must do than a choice for these days during the era specifically. Some might think that working from home isn’t all it’s cracked up to be anyway! It’s easy to see why they feel that way. There are no office chats by the watercooler or quick gossip sessions at nearby desks anymore! Toss in the social distancing situation. You’ve got a potential recipe, for disaster right there!

However, it doesn’t need to stay that way. There is no denying the loss of, in person interactions at bars can affect you to some extent. However, you can compensate for it by engaging in gatherings. Online meetings using platforms such as Google Meet or Microsoft Teams where workmates can casually chat about their lives or enjoy a drink together from their homes can be quite effective, in filling that void.

Once the restrictions ease up a bit in the future and you have the chance to socialize with others beyond work settings again. Remember to keep up the connections too! Building camaraderie virtually is key not, during times like a pandemic lockdown but, in general as well: it helps team spirit thrive and brings a personal touch to team interactions making workdays brighter and more pleasant overall.

Is it possible to cultivate a remote work environment?

Workers who are new to remote working are not the ones who may be struggling to adjust their routine: managers and team leaders also feel the effects of this shift, in work dynamics, on their tasks and responsibilities. Supervising a team is already a job. Having to do it from a distance introduces a whole new level of difficulty. Nevertheless, it is important to note that despite the challenges posed by management it is not an obstacle. With a strategy, in place and some effort to cultivate a positive remote work environment can help in guiding a team effectively and establishing a strong remote culture even within organizations unfamiliar, with remote collaboration previously.

One key step to take is to increase communication, within your team to ensure everyone is well informed about the happenings and tasks at hand. This involves aspects such as deciding on the communication channels to be utilized. Options include platforms like Slack or Skype for VoIP calls or project management tools, like Jira. It also means outlining what you will communicate with the team. Such, as goals or objectives. It could include updates, on clients’ activities or strategic adjustments. Anything that may not be immediately needs to be shared (which’s basically everything).

You’ll need to adjust your schedule to accommodate everyone’s needs and make time for conversations, in addition, to team meetings to show you care about your employee’s wellbeing and address any concerns they may have outside of work settings. It’s important to accept that the work environment has changed from the office setup and avoid trying to replicate it as before. You can observe this in aspects. From the way items are presented to the duration of meetings. 

Is it possible to establish distinctions, between life and work responsibilities?

Transitioning to work poses a challenge, for newcomers. Separating personal life from professional responsibilities can be tricky when both are conducted within the same space. This overlap often leads to a blend of the two spheres. Can result in overworking and neglect of personal wellbeing. A scenario that must be avoided at all costs!

Luckily there are ways to manage your time effectively and numerous apps and resources to assist you in doing! For example: you can schedule tasks in your calendar such, as enjoying lunch with your family or lending a hand with your kids’ schoolwork or simply relaxing at home strumming your guitar away – this way you can safeguard those moments. Deter others from interrupting you. Additionally, you will receive alerts reminding you of tasks to focus on of spending time, in front of a screen.

You can also opt for one of the applications out there to restrict your access, to the internet on your work device once your work hours are over for the day. You could utilize tools to monitor your screen time keep tabs on your physical activity level or even employ apps that assist you in integrating the Pomodoro technique into your routine. All of these approaches (and others too!) are steps towards maintaining an equilibrium, between your personal life and professional commitments.

Is it possible that working remotely doesn’t even feel like work anymore?

Sure thing! Working from home definitely presents a challenge, for those who’re new, to it and struggle with organizing their routines as efficiently as they would in a traditional office setting. Many individuals often find themselves feeling guilty or less productive when they pause their work to attend to household tasks like caring for pets or interacting with housemates while at home.

Moreover, there is a perception that all of those factors contribute to the lack of productivity, among workers, which is why some companies are hesitant to embrace remote work initially.

Those ideas are poorly thought out. Studies have proven that working from home does not hinder productivity and attempting to replicate office practices at home is not logical. Working remotely differs from working in an office setting. It’s, about getting the job done rather than how it feels: the focus should be, on accomplishing tasks effectively regardless of the approach taken. 

Let’s progress together.

It seems likely that remote work will become a fixture, in the work landscape moving. You should consider it as a feature of any job you may have in the future. Many individuals are realizing the benefits of working from home. It can enhance efficiency and productivity while also being environmentally friendly.

Considering everything mentioned earlier in mind shows that remote work is definitely going to be, for a while, hence it’s important to understand what it entails and debunk any misconceptions surrounding it. Delving into these queries and their corresponding responses can guide you in the direction. However, don’t hesitate to continue exploring and educating yourself about this matter.