Tools You Need to Work Remotely

If you’re new to remote work, we want to make sure that you’re equipped to be as successful as possible in this new environment. Here are some of the tools you’ll need to work remotely.

Communication Apps

Programs like Microsoft Teams and Skype will be lifesavers for you and your team as you transition into working from home. Communication is key here, and video chat is the best avenue to keep in touch with your leaders, teammates, and direct reports. Seeing each other helps with isolation and aids in team building. Using programs like this will help you collaborate and connect even from miles apart.

A Desk/Workspace

Try to avoid working from your bed or couch if you can. Separating your relaxation space and your working space is key to maintaining balance when your home becomes your office. Try to make the place you work a bit more like a desk, even if you don’t have the ability to get and actual desk. This is where tables and even a TV tray can help. Get creative to find what works for you.

A Router/Hotspot

Access to the internet is the heart of any home office situation. If you don’t have an existing router, you can make use of a hotspot instead. If you can’t get a wireless hotspot, most smartphones have the capability to serve in its place.

Shared Drives

To that point, your team will need access to collaborative files and documents while you work from home. This helps to keep everyone on the same page and make sure you all have the tools and information you need to work effectively. Utilize online programs which allow you to store files and documents in the Cloud so you don’t skip a beat.

Patience

Things will go wrong. There will be bumps in the road. You will all have a bit of a learning curve to deal with. Give yourself and your team room to make those mistakes or find the holes in your processes and plans and find those solutions with a cool head. Exhibiting a bit of patience when transitioning to a remote work situation will make all the difference.

If you’d like more insights about working from home, please visit our Michael Page advice section.