Working from Home: Keys to Success

Had you told anyone in my parents’ generation that it would be possible to work full-time, from home, in anything other than direct sales, they probably would have laughed in your face.

Even about 6 years ago, when I set out to change the way I worked, deciding that in-home was the right choice for me, those around me expressed concern: “You want to do what?!” Some of them flat out refused to take the idea seriously.

But today, more than ever before, this is an option that many of us are thrilled to take advantage of. Companies are beginning to see the value in offering flexible working environments and it’s beginning to pay off in big ways. Most importantly, technology has evolved that it’s easier than ever to connect, regardless of location.

Before you jump in, thinking it’s the “easy” option, or that it’s a reason to kick back and relax instead of heading into the office, it’s important to understand what you’re getting yourself into, and to find ways to provide value while enjoying the flexibility that this choice offers.

Check out the keys to success that I’ve found to be true, then consider whether this is the best option for you.

1. Understand that Working from Home Sometimes Means Working Harder

When you’re not around the office, it can be hard to feel a part of the team. Even harder, sometimes, is demonstrating the value you’re providing, even when someone doesn’t see you sitting at a desk each morning by 8 a.m.

This means that you may have to work harder than you would from the office, making yourself available, responding to needs more rapidly and demonstrating proof of your efforts (see number 7). Working from home isn’t the easy way out, it requires commitment from the start.

2. Set a Schedule

The thing about being home is that there’s SO much more to do than when you’re confined to a cubicle. In some ways, this is freeing. In other ways, it makes a quick trip to the gym or cleaning the living room awfully accessible.

To overcome the need to do other things when you need to focus on getting your work done, set a schedule. I recommend both a wall calendar and daily notebook (I love the OFFICE 18-month planner series) that you set hours, assignments and all other activities in, and stick to it. Schedules can make or break your work-at-home initiative!

3. Create a “Distraction-Free” Zone

Even with a schedule in place, it can be easy to get caught up in, well, anything but your work.

To make this as easy to overcome as possible, set yourself up with a distraction free zone. Whether that’s an office with a door (I recommend this), or a space that leaves you little room to turn on the television or other entertainment, focus on comfort, accessibility and freedom from daily distractions.

Furthering this point, make sure you can put it away at the end of the day. When you work from home, the work-home balance can become difficult to achieve. When it’s time to shut down, shut down and eliminate all reminders of work. You deserve a break just like you’d get when you leave the office each day.

4. Understand Reality: Bring on Help When Needed

Right now, I’m looking at you work-from-home moms and dads. The idea of staying home with the kids is LOVELY. I get it; I have four. BUT, you may be surprised to learn how difficult it is to accomplish what you need to when you’re also taking care of them. Ask my team how many times a toddler or two has become front a center during a conference call if you need any convincing!

You may need less than full time childcare, and may be able to find someone who comes to you (this is my family’s choice), but having someone who is not you respond to child needs while you’re on the clock is absolutely critical.

5. Make Team Time a Priority

You’re still a part of your team, even if you’re not physically with them. This means that when a conference call, group Skype or chat is scheduled, you need to do everything you can to be a part of it. It might not be the same as being there in person, but it’s still a chance to connect and collaborate that is essential for success.

6. Utilize Communication Options

Technology is why working from home is even a possibility. Use it to your advantage!

Keep your chat options — think Skype, Slack, etc — open, and make yourself available on them. When possible, set up a quick video chat where you get to interact in person. No matter what’s best for you, make it easy for your team to get in contact with you, and make every effort to get back to them as soon as possible.

7. Make Your Presence — and Progress — Known

You don’t want your team wondering: “Hm…I wonder what Stef does from home anyway.” In fact, this is the worst possible scenario.

To avoid this, take steps — like shared Google Drive folders, Trello Boards or One Note files — to share what you’re working on with your team. They may not scrutinize it, but at least they’ll be able to see progress and understand what you’re working on.

8. Get into the Office

Your office might be down the street, or it might be across the country. As such, there’s not a standard “best option” for how often you get to see your team in person. But, you should make an effort to make it a regular thing. It might not be the most convenient option, but it’s likely to give you a little extra energy, and to help you connect with your team.

9. Transparency, Transparency, Transparency

This builds off of number 7. But, transparency is critical. If you’re stepping away for an hour, share it. If you’re working on ten different items but none are quite ready to share, share them anyway. Be clear in your working schedule and do your best to be honest, approachable and transparent at all times!

10. Reevaluate Over and Over Again

Just because you jump on the work from home option, doesn’t mean you need to stay on it.

Take the time to regularly evaluate what’s working and what’s not. Find ways to improve. Think about your hold-ups and frustrations and weigh them against the benefits you’re experiencing. Nothing needs to be permanent!

Working from home is GREAT. For me, it’s the best possible fit, something I’m grateful for each and every day.

If it feels like it might be a great fit for you too, or it’s recently become an option that you’ve started to consider, remember to evaluate whether the keys to success listed above are steps you’re willing to take to make it work.

Have your own tips for success? Share them! I’d love to hear other thoughts.