How Tailwind has Adapted to Work From Home Orders
While vaccines are starting to roll-out, it’s likely that we’ll be working from home for a while yet.
With most of team Tailwind now working from home, a few adjustments were made in order to keep operations running smoothly. Weekly team check-ins via webcam give us a chance to share updates and good news from the previous week. We even celebrate birthdays over video calls (sadly, it doesn’t make us sound any better when singing).
Below are a few more tips we’ve followed to make the transition from office-work to home-work.
1. Use Technology to Stay Connected
With social distancing being the new norm it’s easy to get lost behind the computer screen while you’re working and forget about your co-workers. However, it’s important now more than ever to stay connected with your colleagues. Whether it’s through instant messaging apps, emails, online meetings, or weekly check-ins – find a way to interact virtually with your team. Technology’s rapid growth makes it easier to continue those water cooler conversations while at home. As we navigate this new digital working environment, take time out of your day for social interactions with your team.
2. Trust Your Team
As you adjust to working from home you need to be confident that your team is capable of getting their tasks done in a timely manner. Moving to a digital workspace comes with certain expectations and responsibilities from each co-worker. Rely on your team by building a foundation of trust to hold everyone accountable. This ensures that you can count on your colleagues to complete their work. It makes it easier to work from home when you can trust that each member of your team is doing their part.
3. Avoid Burnout
Working from home brings a new set of challenges, so it’s important to find ways to recharge to avoid burnout. Remote jobs can be taxing as you’re required to be stationary most of the time, so make sure to include clear breaks in your routine. Get your blood flowing and give your body a break from sitting at a desk by stretching or taking a walk. Invest in a good pair of blue light glasses to protect your eyes from looking at a screen all day. However you decide to reenergize, make sure you’re taking the time to decompress and unwind to prevent burnout.
4. Find Balance
Don’t let work take over your life – find a balance. Your office is now your home so you may find yourself putting in overtime or spending less time with family and friends. It’s easy to get consumed with your career and neglect other aspects of your life. Know when to turn off the computer and focus your attention on other things – most emails can wait until Monday! Instead create memories with the important people in your life – prioritize what really matters to establish that balance between your personal and professional life.
5. Have a Flexible Schedule
Being able to have a flexible schedule is essential while working from home. The traditional 9 to 5 is no longer convenient as things will come up that are beyond our control. Communicate with your employer whenever you need to adjust your schedule for everyday responsibilities such as appointments or family engagements. It creates a less stressful work environment when you’re able to have a schedule that accommodates for life’s contingencies.
