1 – Keep the same schedule. If you went into the office early, continue that habit! It is healthy to keep the same schedule for comfort and productivity!
2 – What should you wear? Two schools of thought for this; dress as you would for work. Last week, I interviewed a candidate for a consulting role, he was dressed in a suit as if we had met in person. I liked the added touch and priority he took for the interview. Many remote workers will tell you to dress comfortably. However you dress, ensure that it does not hinder your performance.
3 – Set boundaries! This is both the physical location, an at home office, couch, dining room table, and personal or social boundaries. How bothersome is it if the kids are screaming in the background while on a conference call. With home schooling taking place, these boundaries are also good for the kids to help them focus.
4 – Schedule your time – exercise, meals, and coffee breaks. When your team is working from home, you may find that you go from one video-conference meeting to another with no time in between. At least at the office you had a chance to count some steps while on the way to your next meeting. Give your self a break between meetings. 30-minute meetings can be completed in 25-minutes. An hour meeting, complete in 50-minutes. Your colleagues will love this approach as well – they want to get out of their chairs.
5 – Put your work away – this is another key boundary for you and your family. The temptation is to keep at it, to either avoid doing the dishes, or spending time with the kids. Keep your mind fresh and leave some work for tomorrow!
Excerpts taken from the New York Times