Working from home offers a lot of benefits, including increased productivity and better control over your time. However, not having an office to go to every day can also be a disadvantage because, now, you do not have access to the equipment you will need to accomplish your tasks. Before you dive head-first to the world of telecommuting, here are the things that you need:
A Way to Communicate with Your Clients Wherever You Are
Telecommuting is great; you are not tied to your desk on a 9-to-5 job. Instead, you have the freedom to go wherever you are comfortable or inspired to do your work. Be it a coffee shop or a tropical beach, as long as you can submit what the client is asking for, you can work anywhere in the world.
However, this is only possible if you have the means to contact your partners anytime you need. That is why, for many, a voice over IP phone is the prefered way of communication. A VoIP Phone System uses the internet to transmit all kinds of data, not just audio and video. It also allows workers to send files back and forth in an instant and as if they are collaborating in the same room.
Business IT
If you have been considering diving into remote work, you likely already have (or have plans to acquire) your own computer. However, it does not end there. You would need to install and sign up to services that typical office employees use regularly such as Microsoft Office 365, Dropbox, Slack, and Google Drive. You will also need the technical know-how to install work-related software into your desktop or laptop, or maybe ask a tech-savvy friend to help you out. If you are lucky, some companies will have technical support to assist remote workers whenever they encounter a problem with their software or equipment.
Your Own Office
Sure, working at a cafe sounds fun. However, it can be expensive to buy coffee every day. Not to mention, the chatter may not be conducive for when you need to focus on the task at hand or speak to a client. Eventually, you may want to work somewhere peaceful and comfortable: your home.
If you are working remotely, invest in equipment that you will use to accomplish tasks efficiently. This includes a desk and a chair as well as a working printer and scanner.
Dedicate a space inside your home that you can call your very own office. Place it near a big window where you can get maximum sunlight. Do not do it on your bed because it will eventually mess with your sleeping schedule. Make sure to draw a clear line to separate where you work and you relax. This is important if you want a healthy work-life balance if you are at home.
Professionalism
Simply because you work at home (sometimes, in your pajamas) does not mean you can be relaxed and informal with how you handle your responsibilities and speak to clients. You have to maintain a business-like attitude, even when you are a remote worker, to ensure your clients that you have the skills and knowledge to deliver what is asked of you without constant supervision.
When you are scheduled for a video conference, pull out a blazer and crisp long-sleeved shirt from your dresser. Remove any clutter behind and around you if it will be seen by your client on the screen.
