Due to the outbreak of coronavirus we have to adjust to a different way of working. With the majority of us affected by this change we now spend the majority of time working from home. I see this as challenging even to myself, but I think these tips will help you in overcoming these challenges.
Working Environment
Make sure you have a nice clean working environment. A desk with space for your laptop, phone, comfy chair and coffee (couldn’t miss this!). Even though for some of you this is not permanent, it could be several months that you will be working in this area so ensure it is comfortable. Your legs should have ample space for you to work so you are not cramped.
Most of employees have an email address setup through an email client like Microsoft Outlook. Which can be easily accessed through your phone or mobile device. Ensure that you have ability to share calendars, emails and presence between colleagues for isolated workers. Options to achieve this are through Hosted Exchange or online Microsoft Exchange.
Phone
Even though mobile phones can be used, for business Voice Over IP (VOIP) system is a good way of connecting people with the ability to make and receive calls to main business numbers, direct dial or divert to mobile numbers. Sign up to find out more.
Office Applications
You can share files in many ways through the typical applications such as OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive. However, if you want to control the sharing of files and setup access permissions to certain documents then we have a hosted solution for SharePoint and Office 365 available.
Access to Business Software
Many businesses will have applications that rely on being in the office (client/server app). The main database is stored on site in a server room. This brings limitations and the worker is confined to working in an office.
Having applications ready for working from home is a process we can help you with, which doesn’t have to be daunting. Moving your applications to a hosted desktop gives everyone the ability to work from home, or anywhere in the world. This is a huge step into agile and flexible working.
Devices
Hosted desktops will enable everyone to use any device to access their applications. Whether it be a mobile phone, laptop or tablet. Wherever you are in the world all you need is access to the internet to connect to your hosted desktop.
Develop a communication culture (it’s good to talk…)
Even though you may be isolated it is always good to talk and collaborate with your colleagues. This can be achieved using Microsoft Teams. You can share ideas by staring an online group chat and share your screen for demonstrations. If the coronavirus has you isolated, then video conference is a great way to connect people.
Stay Focused
As a home worker, it can be hard to keep focus on your work due to distractions i.e. TV, social media, etc. I would encourage you to set yourself a daily schedule. Wake up at a specific time, get dressed and go to your desk like you would be going into work.
Remember to take regular breaks, as you will find you are more likely not to move around as much. Working from home does not have to be daunting, but an alternative method to working, giving yourself and business options and flexibility.
At Cloud Server Solutions, we specialise in effective cloud-based solutions to enable you to work from home or anywhere else. To find out more simply get in touch via our contact page.
Remember stay home, protect the NHS, and protect lives. For the latest government guidelines go to https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus.