How to keep productive when home working

Hybrid working continues to be a model used by many employers following the Covid pandemic and it is an option that is now expected by many job applicants. The benefits to employees of hybrid working are well documented and include flexibility, reduced costs of commuting and a more content work environment.

However, remote working can lead to feelings of isolation and being at home can provide a myriad of potential distractions.

When we consider recent research showing employees who work primarily from home are twice as disengaged as those who are office based plus findings that 36% of workers are either hybrid or fully home based then employers need to ensure that the risk of worker inefficiency are considered and addressed.

How can home workers remain productive?

Schedule connection time with colleagues

Employees should schedule and maintain regular communication with colleagues and managers. This can be through virtual meetings or coffee breaks. Social interactions help reduce feelings of isolation and can increase motivation.

Research has shown that employees who feel lonely are twice as likely to take sick days.

Remove distractions

Employees should recognise what things distract them at home and take action to remove them. This could be as simple as turning off notifications on mobile phones or putting phones out of the way during their most productive times to maximise focus. 

A quiet and “clutter free” work area will also help maintain focus.

Have a designated work area

Employees should, where possible, have a work area that is different from their main living area. This will create a physical and mental divide between work and personal time and can help employees to focus during working time.

Establish routines

Research into highly productive workers shows that most will follow a planned morning routine. Having a structure to the working day helps maintain focus. Workers generally perform better in predictable environments which provide a sense of security.       

Utilise key productivity times

Employees will each have their own time in the day when they are naturally more alert, focused and productive. Employees need to identify their optimum times and structure their working days around these peak times.

This “optimum time” is when employees should undertake their most important and challenging tasks to maximise their output and motivation.

Exercise

Exercise provides us all with a break from work and it clears the mind, improves focus, facilitates creativity, and enhances productivity. Employees can take a brisk walk, utilise home gym equipment, follow a pre-recorded fitness routine or take a quick trip to the gym.

Incorporating exercise into the home working routine can also boost mental health and general wellbeing.

Gavin Parrott