If the ability to work from home is still relatively new to you then chances are you’re still learning the behaviours and skills to do so effectively.

Here are four essential tips for staying productive and getting the most out of working from home;

1. Communicate clearly and concisely
2. Leverage the best software available
3. Identify and implement strategies for staying focused and managing time
4. Establish a clear workspace

Less is best

Clear and concise communication, whether digitally or verbally, is crucial while working from home because it helps to limit or eliminate confusion, miscommunication, and misunderstandings.

Having clear and concise communication can improve productivity by allowing team members to better understand the tasks they need to complete, the deadlines they need to meet, reduce the need for follow ups and to focus on the work that needs to be done, rather than wasting time trying to resolve confusion.

By making a conscious effort to communicate effectively you can ensure both you and your team can be more productive while you’re working from home.

Use the best software

Using the best project management software (Jira, Asana, Trello), productivity software (Briefmatic, Notion), virtual meeting platforms (Google Meet, Zoom, Teams), and instant messaging apps (Slack) is critical for anyone (or team) that wants to be productive while working from home.

1. Project management software: These tools allow you and your team to manage projects and tasks effectively, even when you or some of the team members are working from different locations. Critically the software allows you to track project progress, set deadlines, and tracking the time spent on each task. These features help you stay focused and productive while working from home.
2. Productivity software: Tools like Briefmatic can provide you with a centralised platform to view, manage and prioritise your key tasks, collaborate with team members, and assign items to others to help you stay organised and on track while working from home.
3. Virtual meeting platforms: These tools provide teams with the ability to have virtual face-to-face meetings regardless of their physical location. This helps to foster a sense of teamwork, build and maintain strong relationships and allow you to remain in touch and engaged while working from home.
4. Instant messaging apps: The water cooler of the virtual world. These tools provide real-time, asynchronous communication for remote teams, making it easy for you to contact team members to ask questions or provide updates while working from home. Quick, informal communication can help to save time compared to email or phone calls so you can stay focused and on task for longer.

Master your preferred behavioural technique

Once you’re staying focused on communicating clearly across a great software stack then you can start testing new behavioural techniques to keep you at your best while working from home.

Here’s a quick summary some of my favourites (just google them to find out more);

1. The Pomodoro technique — Work for a focused 25-minute session, take a 5-minute break, and repeat the cycle.
2. Time blocking — Schedule specific blocks of time for each task or project.
3. Eat the frog — Tackle the most difficult or unpleasant task first thing in the morning.
4. Use a timer — Set a timer to limit the amount of time spent on a task or to remind you to take a break.
5. Create a daily to-do list — Prioritise tasks and create a list to stay organised and focused. Obviously Briefmatic is a must for this.

Get your workspace setup correctly

Sounds obvious but getting your workspace setup correctly is important for several reasons:

1. Comfort: A comfortable workspace can prevent physical discomfort and pain, such as back, neck, and eye strain, which can distract you from your work and decrease your productivity.
2. Mental clarity: A dedicated workspace can help you get into a work mindset and increase your productivity. It can also help you separate work from personal life, reducing stress and burnout.
3. Professionalism: A professional workspace can improve your image in the eyes of colleagues, clients, and employers. It can also help you feel more confident and motivated.

Overall, setting up your workspace correctly can help you create an environment that is conducive to productivity, comfort, and focus, which can enhance your overall work experience and output.

Here are some tips for setting up your workspace correctly for maximising productivity while working from home:

1. Choose a quiet and well-lit space with a comfortable chair, good air flow, and minimal distractions.
2. Ensure that your computer, keyboard, and mouse are positioned at the correct height to avoid strain on your neck and wrists.
3. Keep your workspace organised and clutter-free. Use storage solutions like shelves, drawers, and bins to keep everything you need within reach.
4. Invest in a good quality monitor or laptop, as well as a reliable internet connection.
5. Consider adding some plants or artwork to your workspace to make it feel more welcoming and energizing.
6. Set boundaries with family or roommates, to ensure that you have uninterrupted work time.
7. Take regular breaks to stretch, move around, and refocus your mind.

By taking these steps, you can create a workspace that is comfortable, functional, and conducive to productivity.

If you combine a great workspace with the right software, good behavioural techniques and clear communication then working from home will soon become your go to place for getting your best work done.