Working remotely offers all sorts of perks, such as the opportunity to make a custom Zoom background. However, not having a cubicle makes for a very different office experience. There are a few things you’ll have to get used to, especially if you want to stay productive. Fortunately, there are plenty of tips to help you out.

Find a Space That Works for You

You need a distraction-free space, so set up your work area beforehand. If you can, designate a room in your residence as your in-home office. If that’s not an option, create a designated space with room dividers or shelving.

Create a Virtual Office Background You’ll Love

There are plenty of backgrounds for Google Meet, ensuring you can find one that fits your style and creates a professional atmosphere. While using a virtual background isn’t necessary if you’re in your home office, it provides privacy and extra flair.

Create a Routine

One of the best ways to stay focused is to develop a routine. Start your workday at the same time every day and schedule your breaks. You should also incorporate little things to look forward to, such as your morning coffee and afternoon snack.

Download All the Tools You Need

When you work at an office, all the software you need is usually available on the intranet or downloaded to your desktop. However, if you work at home, you may need to download specific tools onto your personal computer or company-issued laptop. Ensure you get a list of all the digital tools you need and check that they’re available on your device.

Set Boundaries

Working from home makes it hard to “leave” your job. However, work-life balance is essential for your physical and mental health. To keep your job from bleeding into your home life, set clear boundaries:

• Turn off your company-issued devices unless you’re on-call
• Leave emails and messages for work hours
• Close your home office door and don’t go in until it’s time to work

Keep Communication Lines Open

Remote work means you can’t just stop by colleagues‘ desks to ask a question. Instead, you need to stay aware of the group chat and post your progress on project software to ensure everyone’s on the same page.

Take Time To Move

Sitting in front of a computer can take its toll on your back, shoulders and neck. If you’re working from home, you may move even less than you would at the office since you don’t have to visit the breakroom. To minimize pain and stiffness, get up and walk around once an hour. You can even try stretching or yoga.

Organize Your Tasks

Staying organized is a job unto itself, but it’s crucial if you want to keep on top of deadlines. To maintain order in your home office, try the following:

• Make prioritized lists
• Create a calendar of meetings and deadlines
• Designate a space for all your supplies

Getting ready for remote work puts you in the right headspace to be productive. So, create a Zoom office background with logo, set a timer for your breaks and don’t forget to wish everyone a good morning in the group chat.