Five Tips for Remote Workers During The Summer
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The benefits of working from home have really paid off in my work performance and personal life. The hour per day I save in commuting alone translates to me saving gas, spending more time with family, and pursuing personal interests. The flexibility has also allowed me to better plan summer vacations and set time aside for professional development. When done right, remote working is a win-win for the employee and employer. If you have the option to work from home, try something new this summer and use these tips that will allow you to have a productive day in the sun.





1. Dial up your phone skills

One reality of working remotely is people find it easier to communicate via email and no one wants to talk on the phone. Picking up the phone, rather than emailing and skyping, doesn’t leave you chained to your chair. Try arranging a conversation with your colleague via phone that allows you to sit outside or take a walk around the block. The person on the other line will hear that you are in a good mood and you might get better results from the person on the other end of the call.



2. Make a schedule

Nothing about your “to-do list” should change whether you’re in the office or home. Sticking to a list helps you plan your work load and have balance in your life. That way you are not missing deadlines and appointments. I take my work calendar home with me so that I can follow my tasks easily. Also, use various forms of technology to track projects, collect recipes, follow travel deals, and keep up with my meeting schedule.



3. Find a good place to work

Remote work does not mean that you have to work from home. For me, working at the local coffee shop in the mornings are best when I need to get through tons of emails and respond with some action items. The public library is also a good location to get your work done.



4. Maintain your energy levels

Maintain your own physical health and daily energy levels. Get the rest that you need, eat well, and stay hydrated to keep energy levels up. One great way to get that energy up in the summer is to create smoothies that are loaded with fruits and vegetables. And, you can take a jog at lunch.



5. Give yourself a break

Some days will not go according to plan – you will have been up all night with sick kids with a morning work deadline looming. These days are hard! You can’t always get everything done and it is important to give yourself a break; my advice is to reflect back on your list of priorities and make a contingency plan for getting through the day. There’s another type of break that is important: time off. Plan your next vacation that will allow you to leave work and the house and explore something new.