The biggest change that a lot of us have faced in the pandemic is the transition in our career. You may have worked remotely before quarantine, but for a lot of us, we’ve had to learn how to work virtually for the first time. Shifting to a virtual workplace can be challenging for a variety of reasons. The things you might have taken for granted before, such as easily walking over to someone’s desk to ask a question are now administered through phone calls, emails, or video chats. Here are 5 Ways to Deal with the Challenges of a Virtual Workplace!
1. Work in a Distraction-Free Environment
When we’re at home it can be difficult to stay focused when we have comfort and convenience at our fingertips.
Distractions are different for everybody, for me, social media is often a source that pulls me away from what I need to focus on.
The best thing to do is to find an area of your home that you think you will work the most productively, perhaps move your phone into another part of the house, and only check it when you have a break.
2. Set Clear Boundaries
When you’re working at home, it can be difficult to know when to stop working, especially when you have your workspace right in front of you.
However, it’s imperative to your health to designate times to start and stop working. You need to respect your own needs, as well as your co-workers needs, so if there is an email you need to write or respond to, waiting until the morning won’t be a deal breaker in most cases!
Close your computer down at the end of the day to signal to yourself that work time is over.
3. Communicate Effectively
It is essential to stay connected throughout your work experience, so don’t be afraid to communicate!
Sending regular updates to your co-workers and boss about the projects you’ve been working on will establish a form of trust and accountability amongst the group and yourself.
Working virtually should not be an isolating experience. Take advantage of every platform you have to convey your message.
4. Be Video-Call Ready
Video calls can challenge us to stay present in work when we can easily mute ourselves or turn off our cameras. However, it is very important to be present throughout the meeting and put your best foot forward.
That being said, if your child comes to you crying or if you have a noisy roommate, feel free to mute yourself or turn off the camera briefly.
Overall you should take advantage of the ‘face to face’ time while you have it. Make notes, dress professionally, and make sure your voice is heard.
Learn how to look your best on video calls with these simple tips!
5. Maintain Positive Camaraderie
Finally, continue to make your work experience positive! Building friendly relationships amongst your co-workers will make it a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
The transition to a virtual workplace has been stressful for many people in different ways, which is why it is so important to be empathetic to your co-workers and what they might be going through. After all, we are only human.
The change to a virtual workplace might have been a challenging experience for you, but you’ve probably noted that, with a little inspiration and creativity, you can be highly adaptable to change and take it in your stride. When you communicate effectively, set clear boundaries, and present your most polished self, you will prove to yourself and others that the adjustment to a virtual platform has not affected your professionalism, your work or your results!
What do you think about the virtual workplace model? How have you adapted to it? Let us know in the comments below, and join in the conversation on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram!
