We recommend contacting your manager or IT department about accessing these documents from a remote location, as you may need to follow specific procedures to gain access. These procedures may include downloading specific software or logging into a portal using information assigned to you.

Find or create your ideal workspace

Creating a work environment that will foster productivity and garner great results is also a crucial component of successfully transitioning into a full-time, remote employee. With that said, we recommend doing the following.

Know what works best for you

Everyone works differently, and it’s imperative that you figure out where you work best within your home, given your job responsibilities.

For example, many people work well in a room with a door where they can be alone and also close the door as needed during periods of deep work or for meetings. Meanwhile, employees who engage in light research or creative writing may find that they perform their best while sitting on their family room couch. While either option is fine, it’s important that you’re honest about where you are (and are not) capable of producing your best work.

Choose furniture and supplies that will enable your productivity

Electing to invest in office furniture and supplies like an ergonomic chair or a laptop stand for your desk can significantly benefit your productivity by giving you the capacity to work for extended periods at your chosen workspace.

We recommend checking in with your employer to see if their current workers’ compensation policy will allow them to reimburse you for any office equipment or supplies you purchase.

Try to track your time diligently

Having employees track the time they spend working while at home is often required by companies. Non-exempt employees are most likely accustomed to tracking their time since they work for an hourly wage. However, for exempt employees who are new to tracking the time they spend working, we strongly suggest doing the following.

Use the time-tracker your company has chosen

If your company requires that you track your time, then make sure you’re accurately using the tracker that they have chosen. Doing so will help them get an understanding of how much you’re working, how much you’re able to work, and even whether adjustments need to be made to your schedule. Tracking time can also help you get a better idea of how much time you actually spend working daily, thereby allowing you to adjust your work habits as needed.

Familiarize yourself with how time is tracked at your company.

When it comes to tracking time, your company may want you to log your time in a specific way. For example, if you’re a consultant, your firm may request that, along with recording how much time you spend working, you also detail what client work you’re working on so that they can bill clients accordingly. Therefore, try to pay close attention to any guidelines your company has provided regarding tracking time and follow them accordingly.

Transitioning to a remote work environment can be a stressful experience, especially during these troubling times. However, following the tips listed here can help make your transition easier and set you up for a more pleasant remote working experience.