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February 27, 2024

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Remote Work Digest: February 28, 2024

The latest on all kinds of information, news, and resources that help you make working remotely better.

16 ways to boost remote employee engagement | Kit Germemoth, Moodle.com

As remote employees work in isolation, there isn’t always a strong sense of company culture and, because workers can’t simply pop by a co-worker’s desk, there are communication barriers to overcome. That makes engagement trickier than it is for office-based teams.

Luckily, though, there are lots of ways you can make a real difference to the wellbeing and performance of your WFH teams. It’s just a case of being more intentional and inventive when it comes to engagement ideas. Here, we look at 16 great employee engagement activities for remote workers.

16 remote employee activities

1.Virtual coffee breaks or team lunches

Remote workers miss out on the water cooler conversation that is vital for building strong workplace relationships. Give them the opportunity for informal chat by scheduling virtual coffee breaks and shared team lunches.

2. Virtual icebreakers

Remote employee engagement activities are particularly important for new hires. You want them to feel part of the team as soon as possible. One of the ways you can improve the employee onboarding process for remote workers is by running virtual icebreakers.

3. Virtual mentoring

Employees who have mentors are more confident and engaged. So make mentorship part of your company culture for all employees.

4. Game nights and quizzes

Another way to build a stronger team dynamic? Game nights, virtual escape rooms, and quizzes help teams to get to know each other better. Plus, they’re a lot of fun too.

5. Shout-out channels

Using a dedicated channel or a dedicated hashtag, employees can shout-out the great work or effort of their co-workers. Giving or receiving recognition is great for engagement and it gives everyone a little extra incentive to bring their A-game.

6. Virtual town hall meetings

Give teams an update on successes, goals, and current strategy to get everyone pulling in the same direction.

7. TED-style talks

Pick thought-provoking topics related to your industry or employee development, then let employees take to the (virtual) stage to share their thoughts and insights.

8. Book clubs

Whether you pick fiction or nonfiction, topics related to their interests or your industry, a book club is a great way to bring teams together. Get willing employees to read and then discuss a book on a monthly or bi-weekly basis.

9. Buddy calls

Remote teams can end up working in silos, but you can help them feel more connected to the wider organization by setting up buddy calls. Randomly pair employees who don’t usually work together, then get them to share a 15-minute virtual coffee break. Work chat optional.

10. Provide remote working perks

Remote employees don’t get the little daily pick-me-ups that come from office-based perks. So consider sending perks to their homes, like snacks, a subscription for a popular streaming service, a membership of a gym close to home, or a workstation upgrade.

11. Virtual birthdays and anniversaries

Celebrate the occasion by sending well wishes in the team chat so their co-workers can join in on the celebration. If it’s within your budget, consider sending something special like an e-gift certificate.

12. Fitness challenges

A fitness goal — like reaching a certain number of steps or attending a virtual fitness class — will introduce some healthy competition and bring wellbeing benefits for your team, too.

13. Bring foodies together

Humans have always bonded through sharing food. Ask your team to share their favorite recipes, then have others share photo results and reviews after attempting the recipes.

14. Employee engagement surveys

When employees work remotely, they sometimes struggle to make their voice heard — but this is key to employee engagement. Send out surveys to gauge the mood and gain the opinions of your team. Letting your employees give anonymous responses is a good way to get honest and useful insight.

15. Mindfulness sessions

Give employees the chance to switch off and reset with a virtual mindfulness or meditation session. You’ll improve their wellbeing and help energize them for the week ahead.

16. Online training and development

Remote employees shouldn’t miss out on L&D opportunities, particularly because this is a key driver of employee engagement. Use an online training and development platform to help them develop skills and progress in their careers.

5 Budget-Friendly Tips For Securing A Virtual Office for your Business | Pendi786yo, Original.newsbreak.com

Virtual offices are a cost-effective solution for the modern-day worker. Here, we list five budget-friendly tips to assist you in securing a remote office. Read on to discover more.

1.Create a Business Plan

Before you read more on how to get a cheap virtual office, let’s discuss the importance of putting a solid office strategy or business plan in place. What does this entail? Establishing your business needs. Doing so will assist you in sourcing a tailor-made virtual office package.

2. Secure a Virtual Address

Although remote working is an asset in terms of flexibility and low overheads, one disadvantage? No physical company address. This is where virtual offices come into play. Such a setup provides remote businesses across the globe with a registered business address. What does this mean? You can receive mail or have it forwarded to you. A top tip when searching for the perfect virtual office? Choose one that is close to you. Alternatively, a package that offers a mail forwarding service.

3. Invest in the Right Staff

To ensure your virtual office is successful, consider what roles are necessary for the business. For example, HR is often a crucial one. You can also employ an external agency to handle hiring. Marketing and sales are also crucial roles to consider.

To save on staff costs, you may consider hiring a virtual assistant. You’re only required to pay them hourly instead of a full-time salary, complete with sick and holiday pay. Virtual assistants can help with administrative support, customer support, mail handling, and meeting room access.

4. Consider Select Services

No business is the same. What you may necessitate to run your company efficiently, another may not. To ensure the smooth running of all elements of your business, consider select services. These include project management and organization tools, such as virtual calendars and time tracking tools, to assist you in meeting deadlines and ensuring staff remain motivated through tracking their progress.

5. Create A Website

Whether a remote set-up or residing in a brick-and-mortar office, a quality website is crucial. It is a reflection of your business. From purchasing a domain name to acquiring a host, building pages, writing and updating content, having a functional, user-friendly website in place is crucial to ensuring the smooth running of a virtual company.

The Bottom Line

Virtual offices boast numerous benefits, perhaps the biggest being their budget-friendly attributes. But that’s not all; when you follow these top tips, investing in the correct virtual set-up can heighten your company’s credibility. Plus, you’ll enjoy a whole host of business support and won’t have to worry about being tied into any long-term contracts or commitments.

7 in-demand side hustles you can do from home – some can pay as much as $100 an hour | Morgan Smith, Cnbc.com

To help people interested in pursuing a side hustle find the best remote opportunities, FlexJobs has identified seven in-demand side hustles that can be done from home, based on listings from more than 58,000 companies on its platform posted between July and December 2023. These jobs have dozens of active listings and offer remote, part-time opportunities.

Here are seven in-demand side hustles that can be done from home, and how much they pay, according to FlexJobs, with salary estimates from Payscale:

Virtual assistant ($18 per hour)
Bookkeeper ($20 per hour)
Customer service representative ($16 per hour)
Accountant ($23 per hour)
Technical writer ($26 per hour)
Social media specialist ($19 per hour)
Video editor ($22 per hour)

While the total number of hours varies from role to role, most of the jobs on FlexJobs’ list ask for a commitment of 10-25 hours per week.

Some of these side hustles, including video editing, bookkeeping and customer service, don’t require a bachelor’s degree, says Frana. Instead, she adds, hiring managers will often evaluate candidates based on their previous work experience and soft skills.

“There are core soft skills people look for across all of these roles: an ability to meet deadlines, strong communication skills both in writing and on the phone, being a self-starter, problem-solving and, of course, foundational technology skills,” Frana explains.

Some of these remote side hustles can pay upwards of $100 per hour, depending on your level of skill and the project. Bookkeepers on Upwork, for example, can charge as much as $175 an hour or, for some projects, $300 an hour.

For virtual assisting roles that require more specialized skills — whether it’s building email campaigns or creating WordPress sites — “you’re often talking at least $100 [per hour] and up,” Angelique Rewers, founder of the consulting firm BoldHaus, previously told CNBC Make It.

Workplace Stress: 10 Ways to Ease the Strain | Trinet.com

Left unaddressed, workplace stress can lead to health problems like high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and mental health issues. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, which may increase susceptibility to colds, flu, and coronavirus infections. This, in turn, can increase the number of time off days your employee may take and lower employee output. Stress also disrupts productivity by decreasing employee engagement.

Combating these issues and helping your employees thrive means creating a company culture focusing on stress prevention and stress management.

Powerful ways to help reduce workplace stress

1.Create a strong work-life balance

A positive work-life balance includes minimizing work-related stress to create a sustainable professional life while optimizing well-being and health. Some ways to achieve a healthy work-life balance include employees maintaining reasonable working hours and providing more adequate time to complete tasks. These boundaries help to reduce the pressure on employees to work an extended workday and can help diminish work stress.

2. Provide employees with premium benefits

One of the most impactful ways to help reduce stress in the workplace is to take care of employee health. Employers can do that by providing access to premium health benefits alongside other options. Premium benefits with access to health professionals and preventive health and benefits education and resources can help employees combat stress and healthcare costs, which also can be stressful.

3. Encourage open communication

As an employer, you can shape the employee experience and help reduce stress caused by leadership. Classes and workshops on topics like active listening and constructive feedback, as well as stress management training for managers can provide tools and training resources for managers so they can handle and communicate effectively with employees. Establishing an open line of communication between bosses and employees can help with work stressors and challenges.

4. Offer vacation time off

While productivity is essential, taking time off can help employees with workplace stress and may actually improve output throughout the year. As an employer, encourage your workforce to use their time off.

5. Schedule team outings

Team outings can help improve office morale and facilitate stronger cooperation. Plan off-site outings during normal business hours to avoid cutting into your employees’ personal time.

6. Use flexible work schedules

Flexible work schedules allow employees to vary their start and stop times for their workday, and possibly which days they work. This can be an effective way to help lower workplace stress and increase productivity.

7.Provide employee recognition

When you take the time to recognize stellar work performance and achievements, you show your employees that what they’re doing matters. Recognition for achieving goals reinforces valued conduct and motivates the employees in the spotlight as well as others who want recognition. Praise is a wonderfully effective stress reliever. The recognition doesn’t have to be expensive. Even a verbal thank you or a thoughtful email from a manager to an employee can achieve positive results.

8.Encourage breaks throughout the day

Many employees may work throughout the day. Even when tight deadlines aren’t looming, they may eat lunch at their desk. Taking breaks can help employees avoid burnout while reducing overall stress levels. It’s important to unplug, stand up and move around.

9.Make the office welcoming and fun

A great way to encourage breaks throughout the day is to make your office fun. Little diversions set up throughout the building can give employees reasons to get up and move without having to leave the building. Some options include adding a ping pong table, allowing employees to bring their pets to the office or even installing a few video games. While these diversions can seem counterintuitive, when used appropriately, they can transform the employee experience and help breed innovative ideas.

10.Understand mandated love requirements

There are various mandated leave requirements at the federal, state, and local levels. Understanding these requirements, drafting applicable policies, and communicating them to your employees can reduce stress in times of emergencies.

A lot of workplace stress is associated with life events that require time off, such as illness, pregnancy, childcare, and death. Make sure that you stay up to date on mandatory time off requirements. As you create and implement new policies, communicate them thoroughly and promptly to your team.

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Remote Work Digest: January 28, 2023

The latest on all kinds of information, news, and resources that help you make working remotely better.

5 Arguments to Convince Your Manager to Let You Work From Home | Jack Turner, Tech.co

If you want to make the jump to working from home, here’s five solid reasons to help you make that argument to your manager.

1.You’ll be More Productive

There have been many, many studies that show productivity actually increases when employees are allowed to work from home.

A tech.co exclusive study revealed that 64% of remote businesses report high productivity levels compared to 54% of in-office businesses. Check out the full report. Another study conducted by ConnectSolutions found that productivity was up 77% among remote workers, with 30% saying they actually achieved more in less time.

2. You’ll Live Longer

The value of sleep to our health has been long established, so it makes sense that if you’re working from home, you can justify not getting up early for the commute, and spending a bit more precious time between the sheets.

A study in 2022, by Bloom, Han and Liang showed a strong correlation between remote working and getting more sleep.

This is great news for remote workers (and their bosses), as separate studies, such as this one published by PLOS Medicine, show that those aged 50+ who sleep five hours or less, had a 30% higher risk of chronic illness compared to those catching seven plus hours of shut eye a night.

3. You’ll Put in More Hours

What if you didn’t need to rush to try and beat other commuters in traffic, or worry about squeezing onto the slightly less crowded train? Studies have shown that when freed from the restraints of the typical work day, workers choose to work longer. Surely music to any bosses ears?

Here’s the data to back that up. A report published by the National Bureau of Economics found that US workers who worked remotely saved, on average, 55 minutes a day on their commute.

And how did they choose to spend this saved time? Working. Well, some of it anyway. The study found that on average users spent 42% of this time on work, with 35% spent on leisure time, and 8% caregiving.

4. The Company Will do Better

Picture the scene. You grab five minutes with your manager, and want to make the best argument possible for working from home. What better opener than ‘me working at home will help the business grow’? Well, maybe you should start with ‘hello’, but this is definitely something we feel you should kick off your pitch with.

A study by Flex Index showed that in a 12 month period, companies with between 500 and 1500 employees who offered hybrid work, grew twice as fast as those that didn’t.

5. It Could Save the Planet

Many companies in 2024 are drastically looking to lower their carbon footprint, from reducing the need to print and going all-in on digital, all the way to creating brand new office spaces that put eco needs first, and lean heavily into alternative energy sources.

If your company is one of these (and lets face it, it should be!), then there’s a very quick solution you can offer to your boss that will allow them to alleviate some of the guilt they feel about their company’s impact on the planet.

That solution is (drum roll please) working from home! I mean, of course it, after all, that’s what this whole article is about, but trust us, we can help you back it up with actual science.

A study from peer-reviewed journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) in 2023 found that “remote workers could have a 54% lower carbon footprint compared to onsite workers.”

Not only that, but hybrid workers that are working from home between two and four days per week could also cut emissions by between 11% and 29%.

It’s not too hard to see why fewer cars on the road, and less people in the office would help lower carbon emissions. We think it’s one of the strongest arguments you can make for remote working!

How to Increase Employee Engagement in 2024 | Young Entrepreneur Council, Inc.com

While the benefits of boosting employee engagement may sound great, finding ways to do it is where the real challenges lie. The trend toward hybrid and remote work environments makes it trickier to build relationships. When connections aren’t there, organizational cultures can fall apart and commitment levels can plummet. Read on to discover three effective ways to improve employee engagement.

1.Make Career Development Personal

Designing customized career development plans with each employee’s input shows you don’t discount your people’s ambitions. Getting rid of policies that restrict lateral moves also helps. Someone may get hired for a specific role but soon discover that it’s not a good fit. Tenure requirements may prompt them to look elsewhere when they’d rather stay. Encourage open conversations instead, and be an advocate for your employees so you can achieve mutual goals.

2. Centralize Collaboration

Making up for the lack of in-person contact with centralized communication hubs is enormously helpful. You can use these hubs to supplement other collaboration tools, such as instant messaging, videoconferencing, and project management apps. Hubs give staff members one place to connect with potential mentors and ask questions of people outside their departments.

With centralized hubs, workers get a chance to discover career opportunities and learn what’s happening in the organization. They can also become members of employee resource groups supporting various interests, such as those advocating for a higher percentage of women and minorities in leadership. A centralized communication hub can pave the way for employees to build relationships and get assistance in virtual environments so they don’t feel as isolated.

3. Think Beyond Basic Benefits

Conventional benefits like health insurance and time off are necessary, but they may not be sufficient. More than likely, many companies in your industry meet these baseline worker expectations. As an employer, you can go beyond the basics and determine what perks your staff will appreciate. Examples of not-so-conventional benefits include the ability to bring pets and children to the office.

Daycare costs and pets with separation anxiety can be top drivers behind the need for flexible work arrangements. Consider on-site pet and child care or monthly stipends for those who need them. Other less conventional benefits might include financial and legal guidance, such as access to a financial adviser. Stress management programs and access to therapists are additional perks that are often appreciated. Talk to employees to find out what they want and need.

Increasing Employee Engagement in the New Year

Increasing employee engagement is eminently doable, but there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. What motivates each of your staff members is going to be as unique as they are. At the same time, there are common threads, such as the need for career development plans, social connections, and holistic benefits.

Incorporating and personalizing these approaches will demonstrate your commitment to your employees’ success. The basics of reciprocity apply here. If you want employees to be engaged and motivated, you have to be, too.

Fostering work-life balance when working from home | Cathy Hobbs, Telegraphherald.com

Here are some recommendations for creating an ideal blend of work and relaxation under the same roof.

Create a separate area for work. Ideally this should be a separate room, but if you can’t, creating a work “zone” that is separate and distinct will help.
Take frequent breaks during the day. Once in the morning, around lunch and before the end of the day is ideal.
Spend some time outdoors. Taking time for a breath of fresh air will help instill a sense of calm.
Infuse soothing colors to create a sense of calm. Pure white, neutrals and soothing blues can help.
Incorporate greenery. Trees and plants can go a long way in helping a space feel modern, fresh and calm.
Try to incorporate nature and natural elements.
When possible, utilize natural sunlight or infuse as much light as possible into a space. Sunlight can help to calm the mind.
Consider incorporating scent or fragrance. A calming effect can come from “soothing the senses.”
Experiment with mirrors. Mirrors help to reflect light and can act like windows in a space.
Use wood and wood-like elements. This can help to “ground” a space and help to make it feel cozy.

6 tested and tried morning habits for better health and productivity | TOI Lifestyle Desk, TimesofIndia.com

Wake up and win: Unlock your best self with these morning habits!

The decisions you make in the wee hours of the morning can mean the difference between a lazy day and one where you take on obstacles head-on. These 6 morning routines will help you wake up feeling refreshed and invigorated.

Hydrate your way to vitality

Pour yourself a full glass of water to start your day. This is a potent health drink, not just an ordinary routine. Drinking water after a night of sleep gives your body the hydration it needs, speeds up your metabolism, and removes toxins.

Rise and thrive

Give up the snooze button and commit to a regular wake-up time. By doing this, you control your circadian rhythm, which enhances the quality of your sleep and gets rid of that grogginess in the morning.

Move it or lose it

Exercise increases metabolism, improves mood, and sharpens cognitive function. It can be as simple as stretching, yoga, running, or a quick workout. Choose the exercise that works best for you and get your heart rate up for a vigorous start.

Zen out with meditation

Take a mindful pause in your morning for 10 minutes of meditation. Whether it’s focused breathing, guided meditation, or simply finding a quiet moment, mindfulness helps calm your mind, reduce stress, and elevate your focus.

Master your day with planning

Making a plan in advance aids in time management by averting distractions and putting off tasks. To ensure a focused and intentional day, write down your priorities in a journal or with a planning app.

In a nutshell

Maintaining fitness and health involves a balanced approach. Regular exercise, such as brisk walks, jogging, or yoga, promotes physical well-being. A nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains is vital. Prioritize hydration and get adequate sleep for overall well-being. Minimize stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing. Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and sedentary behaviors. Regular health check-ups are essential for early detection of potential issues. Strive for a healthy work-life balance, and cultivate positive relationships. Consistency in these habits fosters long-term well-being and a vibrant, healthy lifestyle.

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December 29, 2023

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Remote Work Digest: December 29, 2023

The latest on all kinds of information, news, and resources that help you make working remotely better.

Five strategies for businesses to succeed in 2024 | Manar Al Hinai, Thenationalnews.com

Here are some key lessons for businesses to learn from this year and put into effect in 2024.

Embrace Change

One of the most important lessons I have learnt is that embracing change is the best thing I can do for myself and my business.

Nothing good comes from resisting change and not learning how to take advantage of the shifting landscape.

Build a strong team

Invest in hiring a good team. This is an exercise you should not rush. Hire team members who share your vision, values and drive.

This means offering a competitive salary package, fostering a collaborative culture where your team members would thrive and providing them with the opportunity to learn and develop their skills.

Connect with the community

Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of how businesses affect the community and the environment around them.

Adopt environmentally friendly business practices. Look for ways to reduce your carbon footprint and embrace initiatives that will support your community members and global audience, if applicable.

Never stop learning

In an ever-evolving business landscape that is increasingly being shaped by artificial intelligence and other technological advances, we need to continue dedicating time for learning and developing our skills.

Organisations need to ensure that their employees have the time and resources to learn and develop.

It’s OK to fail

It’s OK to fail. However, it is not OK to not try something new. Fail, fall, get up and try again.

We will never know exactly what the coming year holds for us, but what I know for sure is that being well prepared, planning ahead, embracing learning and continuous development, being agile and surrounding yourself with a strong team will help ease challenges along the way.

7 tips for conflict resolution in the workplace | Rich Henson, Hrmorning.com

It’s important for good managers to be ready and willing to face conflict head-on and have possible solutions ready to implement. To do that, you need tools. So here they are.

Here are the top seven tips for conflict resolution in the workplace.

1.Establish open communication channels

Open communication is at its best when managers and team members feel free to express their differing opinions, ideas and concerns with each other in a steady and transparent manner.

Managers can encourage this by scheduling regular one-on-one or team check-ins to create a space for employees to discuss concerns and share updates. This proactive approach develops communication skills and helps identify issues before they escalate.

2. Foster a positive work environment

Team-building exercises or events strengthen interpersonal relationships, which leads directly to better collaboration and reduces conflicts in the work environment.

Though some morale-building events may look like all fun and games, they are designed to encourage people to work as a team. Countless studies have documented the link between team building and improved employee performance.

3. Provide conflict resolution training

To be successful, it’s important for organizations to conduct training sessions that focus on improving communication, active listening and constructive feedback.

Employees need to be given the tools to both express themselves and to understand their colleagues more fully.

Your managers also need these same skills, as well as mediation techniques, conflict de-escalation skills, and the ability to facilitate constructive conversations.

The top 10 communication skills tips for conflict resolution are:

No finger-pointing.
Let people explain themselves.
Listen.
Use ‘I’ statements.
Stay calm.
Be willing to compromise.
Don’t talk behind people’s backs.
Avoid taking things personally.
Pay close attention to nonverbal communication.
Prioritize resolving the conflict over being right.

4. Establish clear policies and procedures

Workplace conflict often arises simply because people don’t know the rules.

That’s why it’s important to clearly outline workplace expectations and acceptable behavior in employee handbooks and written policies.

Employees should also be made aware of the consequences of violating these standards.

Outline the steps involved in your conflict resolution processes, making the processes transparent.

5. Encourage empathy and understanding

While empathy and understanding may be fifth on this list, it is essential right out of the gate. Be sure to foster an inclusive workplace by providing training on diversity and inclusion. This helps employees develop empathy and a better understanding of varying viewpoints.

By taking a proactive approach to diversity and inclusion, companies foster an open-minded work environment where people of varying backgrounds and identities are valued.

It is important to value listening skills, an open mind that accepts different viewpoints, and a willingness to find common ground.

6. Mediation and neutral third parties

While it’s important for managers to know how to resolve conflicts, it’s also vital to know when to call a third party for help.

For example, a long-simmering conflict may require a neutral third party. Sometimes, the manager simply doesn’t want to be the one delivering a difficult message. Or there may be a conflict where a great imbalance of power exists.

7. Continuous monitoring and evaluation

Simple things like onboarding a new hire, changing job assignments, promoting someone, or adjusting work schedules or workflow can create opportunity for clashes.

A proactive manager works closely with human resources to spot and address issues before they escalate.

Conflict resolution is an easier task in a workplace that’s already been built on trust, respect and empathy for one another. And conflict resolution in the workplace is a great place to focus a manager’s energy, since conflict reduction can lead to increased employee productivity, greater motivation and loyalty, lower medical costs, fewer workers’ comp claims, and lower absenteeism and turnover.

5 Time Management Hacks for Work | Minute Hack.com

From recognized methods to developing a routine, here are some handy ideas.

Get Some Digital Help

It’s probably safe to assume you have access to at least a computer. But like most, you also probably use a smartphone or tablet. These can be lifesavers because of the many amazing apps you can get. Collaboration apps like Slack and even calendar apps can help you manage time more effectively.

Use the Pomodoro Method

The Pomodoro Method helps you break down large tasks into smaller ones based on time. Basically, you work on your tasks 25 minutes at a time and take a five-minute break between each interval. This helps your brain stay sharp without being bogged down. It can also help to take ten minutes or more for every fourth interval.

Time Management Hacks for Fewer Distractions

Distractions are all around us and can take a lot of time when you are working. This is especially true when working from home, where it isn’t as strict as in the office. A survey by Gitnux found that 84% of us become distracted, but you can reduce this with some simple steps:

List tasks by priority the night before they are to be completed.
Turn off anything that is definitely going to distract you.
Make sure your workspace is as comfortable as possible.

Establish a Routine that Works

Working on a routine can be one of the most effective ways to get the most from the time available to you. Certain tasks, such as getting up, brushing your teeth and showering, are automatic routines. But work routines will require some thought. Think about when you will start your work, when you will take breaks and the time you wish to finish.

Work During Your Productive Sweet Spot

Everyone has a different sweet spot when they are more productive. Some people are full of beans at 5 am, while others perk up at night when it’s dark. This can be important because we all have peak productivity times when we can just get things done. It can take some trial and error, but it can make a massive difference to your work life when you find it.

Digital apps are some of the most useful time management hacks you can try. It also helps to reduce distractions when working. And finding your productivity sweet spot is a massive help.

15 Things Leaders Should Know About Returning To The Office | Forbes Coaches, Forbes.com

Below, 15 members of Forbes Coaches Council share key aspects that employers may not quite understand regarding RTO plans, which could help them more clearly—and more effectively—communicate their strategic goals for bringing everyone back together in the same physical space.

1. Every Situation Is Different

Instead of being strategic, which would take more time and maybe even cost more money, employers are just glossing over everything and re-disrupting a workforce that is just now getting past being initially disrupted. Employers may point to data to show why it’s a good thing to return, but rarely are they looking at their own data. – Franklin Buchanan, Post Up Careers

2. It’s Not About The ‘Office’

Start by remembering that it’s not about the “office”; it’s about people connecting with other people—collaborating and engaging in meaningful ways that simply don’t happen via Zoom. If the focus is on effective collaboration and culture-building, communication with employees will organically come across differently and be more likely to inspire the desire for those kinds of experiences. – Lori Bartle, Cultivagency

3. Your Team’s Motivators Matter

What motivates your team? If your team is returning to the office, reevaluate what motivations you use in your company. One of the hottest motivators today is assisting your team members with the expense of the commute—so look at gas cards, reimbursements, travel cards and paid-for ride-sharing. – Nick Leighton, Exactly Where You Want to Be

4. RTO Mandates Can Damage Engagement

Mandating a return to the office damages engagement. Employees demonstrated higher productivity during their remote season. So, coming back to work just because employers want their office space used doesn’t sell well. Employees feel controlled and not appreciated. Companies that paid for healthy lunch options, remodeled and offered flexible remote options enticed their workforces to return to the office. – Carry Metkowski, Carry Metkowski

5. Hybrid Employees Need Manager-Set Boundaries

Many employers are focused on the wrong thing. For many workers, the issue isn’t where they work, but the level of autonomy and flexibility. In fact, most employees prefer a hybrid experience, as long as they feel that management sets boundaries and acknowledges that working in the office every day often creates unnecessary hardship and stress due to things such as serving in caregiving roles and facing long commute times. – Ira Wolfe, Poised for the Future Company

6. Employee Needs Vary By Generation

We operate in a wildly diverse work environment, with more generations employed together than ever before in history. Each workforce segment has different needs and concerns driving their performance and job satisfaction. The shift to work-at-home exposed and amplified these differences, making it necessary for leadership to understand and speak to each of these concerns. – Philip Liebman, ALPS Leadership

7. The Work-Life Balance Paradigm Is Evolving

Adapting to evolving expectations regarding work-life integration is essential for employers in our post-Covid reality. A new culture that respects individual needs and preferences is needed. Organizations can create a new environment that resonates with diverse working styles and inspires employees to return. Recognizing the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as flexibility, helps personalize a better work experience. – Dominik Szot, MIA

8. Employees Now Realize How Much Working Costs Them

What became glaringly clear to our workforce during Covid was the cost of being employed. From child care and transportation costs to work clothing and meals out, working from home suddenly brought awareness to what going to work was costing in terms of both personal expenses and precious time spent commuting. Getting creative with the benefits you offer may be a game-changing way to become a preferred employer. – Sherre DeMao, BizGrowth Inc

9. Employees Need Compelling Reasons To Return

An employee’s connection to the job, the company and its culture isn’t built by sitting in the office. People need to know the purpose behind returning—why they are doing what they are doing for you. Instead of making it a policy, inspire them with a reason that is compelling enough to justify the time and commuting costs. Employees will join you in the office when they feel they belong to the company and have fun in the office. – Adriana Kosovska, Zero To Dream Job

10. Work Environments Must Align With Employees’ Needs

Employers must grasp how expectations have changed post-Covid. There are diverse preferences for work interactions. To inspire a return to the office, it’s crucial to understand and accommodate these preferences, creating an environment aligned with individuals’ needs and reasons for coming back—rather than forcing people into ways of working that might not be the most effective for them or their teams. – Martha Jeifetz, MJ – Executive Coaching & Advising

11. Flexibility Helps People Be More Productive

Hybrid work is the only real sustainable path forward. Organizations that are using pre-pandemic models to demand a return to the office are neglecting the truth of the experience, which is that people have a tendency to be even more productive during their “execution” time, and work from home actually allows more focus and an expanded time window for work. Give folks flexibility. – MK Palmore, Apogee Global RMS

12. ‘Remote Work’ Could Be A Great Benefit Now

The one thing employers aren’t “getting” about post-Covid return-to-office plans that could change how they communicate with employees is that now “remote work” could be a great benefit. Rather than a blanket return-to-work policy, employers might consider a three- to four-day in-office workweek, allowing all employees to benefit and maintain a connection to the organization, their peers and their homes. – Tinna Jackson, Jackson Consulting Group, LLC

13. The Emotional Impact Of RTO Matters

It seems like many employers are focused on the logistics of returning to the office, such as safety protocols and scheduling, but may not be fully considering the emotional impact. Perhaps a focus on open and transparent communication, as well as empathy and understanding, could go a long way in inspiring employees to feel comfortable and excited about returning to the workplace. – Shamila Mhearban, The Leadership Growth Hub

14. Reoriented Priorities Demand Hybrid Options

So much has shifted in people’s lives. Some love that they had more time with their loved ones while working at home; others felt stifled by the ever-present closeness. Some got the virus; some had a family member or friend get sick, or even die. Almost everyone reoriented their priorities. Find out what works best for each employee and try to create hybrid options with choices that allow them to thrive. – Nadine Hack, beCause Global Consulting

15. Sharing The ‘Why’ Can Help Employees Want To Adapt

Employers often do not “get” that for their employees to want to adapt their behavior post-Covid, leaders must clearly communicate the “why” (why must they return to the office, why now, and what might happen if they do not return). They must also help their employees feel more empowered by offering some agency regarding the return-to-office plans, such as by giving options or asking for solutions. – Vered Kogan, Momentum Institute

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November 28, 2023

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Remote Work Digest: November 28, 2023

The latest on all kinds of information, news, and resources that help you make working remotely better.

How to Make the Most of Your Home Office | Outlookindia.com

Creating an effective and productive home office environment is essential for those who work remotely. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your home office.

1.Designing Your Workspace

The physical environment plays a crucial role in your work performance. Select a dedicated space with ample natural light, ergonomic furniture, and minimal distractions. Personalize it with plants, artwork, or motivational quotes to create a positive and inspiring atmosphere.

2. Technology and Connectivity

Invest in reliable technology to ensure seamless communication and efficient workflow. High-speed internet, quality audio and video equipment, and ergonomic peripherals contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable work experience.

3. Establishing a Routine

Maintain a consistent schedule to create a sense of structure. Set regular working hours, breaks, and a clear endpoint to your day to prevent burnout. This routine not only enhances productivity but also helps in achieving a healthier work-life balance.

4. Effective Time Management

Utilize tools and techniques for effective time management. Prioritize tasks, set realistic deadlines, and use productivity apps to stay organized. Break down your work into smaller, manageable tasks to make progress more achievable and less overwhelming.

5. Creating Boundaries

Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Communicate your working hours to family members or housemates, and avoid the temptation to overwork. Disconnect from work-related communication channels after business hours to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

6. Regular Physical Activity

Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Whether it’s a morning jog, a midday yoga session, or an evening walk, physical exercise contributes to improved mental health and overall well-being.

By intentionally designing your space, establishing a routine, and embracing a holistic approach to well-being, you can unlock the full potential of your home office and thrive in the new era of flexible work.

Management Tips: How Managers Can Lead Their Teams | Nicola Holder, Demotix.com

Effective leadership is the highlight of successful team management. Today’s business environment is witnessing distributed teams and work happens remotely. Therefore, managers face unique challenges in managing their activities. Fortunately, technological advancements have provided tools to streamline management processes.

Management tips for managers

Here are various tips can consider for their teams.

Communication

Communication is the bedrock of effective management. Managers must ensure expectations and feedback are communicated clearly to the team. Employee monitoring software can assist in this aspect by providing a centralized platform for communication. Managers can use features like messaging and announcements to disseminate information promptly.

Goals

Managers should establish measurable objectives for their teams. Employee monitoring software can help track progress toward these goals. It allows managers to identify areas of success and additional support. Setting clear expectations and regularly monitoring progress creates a sense of direction and purpose. It motivates team members to achieve their best.

Employee development

Investing in employee development is crucial for long-term team success. Employee monitoring software can help managers identify individual strengths and areas for improvement. Performance data can help managers tailor training programs and provide targeted feedback to enhance each team member’s skills.

Work-life balance

Balancing professional and personal life becomes essential for employee well-being and productivity. Employee monitoring software can assist managers in monitoring workload and identifying potential burnout risks.

Collaboration

Employee monitoring software includes features that facilitate collaboration, like project management tools and collaborative spaces. Managers should encourage using these tools to promote teamwork and create a sense of unity among team members.

Feedback

Regular feedback sessions, supported by data-driven insights, can assist team members in understanding their strengths and areas for improvement. Managers can use this information to provide guidance and support.

Reward performance

Acknowledging and rewarding outstanding performance is critical to boosting morale and motivation.

Address conflict

Managers should address conflicts promptly by fostering open communication and implementing strategies to resolve issues amicably. A proactive approach to conflict resolution contributes to a healthier team dynamic.

Stay informed

Managers should invest time in staying informed about the latest advancements in management technology. Knowledge enables them to leverage the full potential of employee monitoring software. They can move ahead of the curve in optimizing team performance and efficiency.

Data privacy

Respecting privacy builds trust within the team and creates a fruitful environment where employees feel valued.

Role of employees in seeking practical guidance from their managers

Open communication channels

Establishing a channel for regular feedback and discussions ensures concerns and questions are shared promptly. Using one-on-one meetings and team discussions allows employees to express their thoughts on work-related matters and seek guidance on challenges they may be facing.

Expectations

It’s essential to proactively engage with managers to ensure a clear understanding of expectations. Seeking clarification on tasks and project objectives helps employees align their efforts with the organizational vision.

Proactive participation

Actively participating in these conversations allows employees to articulate their career goals and collaborate with managers to create actionable plans for improvement.

Constructive use of employee monitoring software

Actively engaging with monitoring tools can help employees self-reflect on their time management and seek guidance from managers on strategies to enhance effectiveness.

Feedback loop

Establishing a feedback loop is essential for ongoing improvement. Employees should actively seek feedback from managers on their performance and projects.

Bottom line

Embracing clear communication and prioritizing employee development can help managers lead their teams to greater efficiency and success. The key is to strike a balance between using technology and maintaining a human-centric approach that values the well-being and growth of each team member.

How to Take Your Startup to the Next Level with Time Management | Maya Johnson, Killerstartups.com

With the right time management strategies, you can save more time as a startup entrepreneur, ensure that your most vital responsibilities are addressed, and reduce your stress at the same time.

Here’s how to take your startup to the next level with more effective time management.

Hire Help (and Delegate)

First, consider hiring help and delegating some of your responsibilities. It’s arguably the most direct and effective way to reduce your task list if you have the budget for it.

Third-party companies. If you’re planning on growing the business, your best option is hiring a third-party company to take over some portion of the responsibilities for your business.

Employees. Hiring employees can be useful, especially if you need key leaders in long-term roles, but it can also be expensive. Consider hiring for talent, rather than just experience, to reduce your costs while still recruiting excellent candidates.

Contractors. Hiring contractors is usually less expensive and more flexible than hiring traditional employees, but it can give you access to competent people who can help you with just about anything.

Cut Meetings

As an entrepreneur, you might spend even more time in meetings. But the truth is, not every meeting is necessary, and most meetings feature at least some time waste. One of the best ways to increase productivity for yourself, as well as the people around you, is to reduce the number of meetings you hold and reduce the time allotted for each meeting.

Automate Whatever You Can

With the right technology, you can practically eliminate certain tasks that previously required you to expend manual effort. In addition to saving time, automation improves consistency, practically eliminating the possibility of human error interfering with your operations.

Stop Multitasking

Even innocuous forms of multitasking, such as checking emails while in a meeting, interfere with your ability to pay attention and remain productive. Focus on one thing at a time.

Make Use of the Pareto Principle

The Pareto principle is an informal guideline that, in many scenarios, 80 percent of your results can be attributed to 20 percent of your inputs. For example, 80 percent of your sales could come from 20 percent of your clients.

Try to apply this to your job. If 80 percent of your impact can be attributed to 20 percent of your responsibilities, which responsibilities would those be? These are responsibilities that should always get your full attention and top priority; everything else is somewhat expendable.

Schedule Heads-Down Time

During these scheduled hours, take no phone calls, text messages, or chat requests; you may even want to disconnect from the internet. You’ll find yourself much more productive under these circumstances.

Track Your Time

Finally, make it a point to track your time. What do you do throughout the day? How much time do you spend on various responsibilities? When do you feel like the day slips away from you? By studying your patterns and habits, you’ll learn more about how you work and spend time – and you’ll be in a much better position to make improvements.

Better time management has the potential to make you a better entrepreneur. With more time and a better sense of productive control, you’ll be ready to take your startup to the next level.

These 9 health complaints could be hurting your career success—and one culprit is fueling most of them | Erin Prater, Fortune.com

Workers who reported the highest levels of unproductivity at work were likely to suffer from one or more of the following nine complaints, they found. From most common to least:

1.Depressive symptoms

2.Lack of appetite

3.Insufficient sleep

4.Heart palpitations and/or shortness of breath

5.Dizziness

6.Joint pain

7.Headache

8.Stomach/intestine problems

9.Diarrhea and/or constipation

Men who reported high levels of unproductivity at work also commonly reported one or more of these four additional symptoms:

– Mental illness

-Lower back pain

-Eye strain

-Stiff neck and/or shoulders

The following types of people were more likely to report lagging productivity at work:

-Men

-Older adults

-Managers (vs. non managerial employees)

-Customer service professionals (vs. administration and sales)

A recommended shift in focus

Employers may be able to improve employee productivity by focusing on stress reduction, rather than the elimination of lifestyle-related disease risk factors like smoking and a sedentary lifestyle, researchers suggested. That’s because nearly every symptom distracting employees of both genders can stem from stress.

Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry recommends that companies attempt to improve employee health by encouraging proper diet and exercise, in addition to curbing excessive work hours.

But researchers also recommend that employers focus on improving mental health, stress levels, and sleep among employees. Sleep problems in particular may indirectly or directly lead to:

Working long hours
Work overload
Interpersonal conflicts
Low job satisfaction

A 2021 study published in the Kansas Journal of Medicine also found that employees who reported more stress were significantly more likely to be unproductive at work.

The following factors can cause work-related stress, according to the World Health Organization:

Poor work organization (the way jobs and work systems are designed and managed)
Poor work design (lack of control over work processes)
Poor management
Poor working conditions
Lack of support from colleagues and supervisors

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October 30, 2023

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Remote Work Digest: October 30, 2023

The latest on all kinds of information, news, and resources that help you make working remotely better.

6 ways Remote Work Transformed My Finances | Laura Beck, Finance.yahoo.com

To understand how remote work has transformed finances, let’s look at a few real-life examples — from Augustinas Milaknis, head of PR at Ratepunk, and writer Emery Bowles — about remote work tools and managing remote teams.

Milaknis shared how remote work saved him money on commuting costs. Not having to commute to an office every day provided huge relief for his wallet.

“The biggest change was the fact that I didn’t have to pay for a taxi or other kinds of transport to get to my work, which was a problem since I live quite far away from the city. This alone saves me a couple hundred dollars a month,” he explained.

I Cut Down on Meals Out

“Another very welcome change was eating home-cooked meals for breakfast and lunch every day. Since I don’t have to go to diners or restaurants around my workplace during lunchtime, I save a ton of money on food-related expenses, and drinking homemade coffee and not going to the coffeeshop two times a day, as I used to when I was working a non-remote job helps, too,” he said.

I Relocated to a Lower Cost-of-Living Area

In expensive urban areas, salaries often barely cover basic living expenses. But remote work opened up the option to move to locations with cheaper rents and home prices. Bowles could stretch his income further and gain an improved quality of life in an area that better aligned with his budget and lifestyle goals. For remote workers, geography no longer has to limit options.

I Gained the Flexibility to Travel

Working while traveling was a game-changer. With a remote job, he gained the freedom to become a digital nomad. instead of using precious vacation days, he could simply work from Airbnbs and coffee shops abroad. Blending work and adventure opened up affordable travel opportunities.

However, Some Expenses Went Up

Bowles pointed out some downsides of remote work on personal finances, though. With no office environment or commute separating home and work life, he found boundaries blurring.

“With the comfort of home, I found myself occasionally splurging on high-end home office gadgets and ergonomic furniture. Plus, the blurred lines between work and leisure meant higher utility bills from being home more often,” he admitted.

Without conscious effort, it’s easy for remote workers to veer into impulse purchases for their home workspace. And higher electricity, gas and internet costs from increased home usage can eat into budgets. While remote work can save money in some areas, expenses in others can rise.

9 Proven Productivity Hacks to Supercharge Your Performance | Abha Warrier, Yourstory.com

Productivity is the ability of an individual or a team to work efficiently with maximum output in a given time frame. There are multiple factors that determine your productivity such as motivation, training, time management, stress levels, and physical and mental health. Especially, if you work at or run a startup, it’s not just about working harder but smarter, ensuring each stride is purposeful, each effort, monumental.

Tips to improve your productivity

The key lies in discovering the unique blend of strategies that resonate with your individual rhythm, driving you to achieve more in your distinctive entrepreneurial dance.

1.Set your goals

Setting clear and realistic goals is a must. If you begin by setting goals that you might not be able to achieve right away, it generally tends to discourage you and you begin to question your own ability.

2.Perform tasks in order of priority

Make a list of the tasks you need to accomplish in a day (or any different duration) and list them based on the order of importance. This will help you get an overview of your tasks and manage them based on the time you have.

3. Improve time management

Being one of the most crucial steps, it allows you to manage your tasks based on how much time you have. If you have a minor task that can be completed immediately, don’t procrastinate. Finish it right away, or else multiple such tasks can pile up and make you feel overwhelmed.

4. Avoid distractions

If possible, put your phone away. Ringtones, notifications and even a simple buzz from a device are enough to distract you. With constant notifications from the various social media platforms, it is easy to get carried away and before you realize it, you have spent more time on it than you intended to. Instead, you can schedule breaks for yourself where you can indulge in these activities.

5. Visualization

Visualise your goals and the steps you need to take to achieve them and then picture yourself achieving them. Having a clear mental picture makes it easier for you to navigate. It boosts your confidence and motivates and encourages you to pursue your goals.

6. Collaborate and network

Forming connections is vital in any organisation. There are multiple occasions when you would be assigned team tasks and collaborative work. In such cases having good connections with people will definitely come in handy.

7. Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Health is of utmost importance as without good health, you will not be able to concentrate or work efficiently. Having good health also reduces absenteeism and can contribute to improving your performance.

8. Stay flexible

In the startup ecosystem, there can be uncertainties from time to time. People with the ability to adapt to these circumstances, learn from them and mould themselves will be able to enhance their future performance.

9. Use rewards and positive reinforcement

Rewards or positive reinforcements can come in the form of congratulations from your boss or your teammates and they boost your confidence and give you a sense of accomplishment. However, rewards need not always be expected from someone else. You can treat yourself to small rewards for achieving your goals and milestones that you set, no matter how small they are and it will boost your morale and your confidence. It will increase your will to work harder and faster next time as well.

4 environmental impacts of remote work | Molly Driscoll, Techtarget.com

Remote work can be environmentally sustainable in a number of ways, with benefits such as a reduction in employee commuting and the potential of more environmentally friendly employee meals helping reduce a company’s impact on the environment.

In addition, remote work is a win for companies in ways that extend beyond environmental gains. Remote work can improve employee experience.

Here’s more about how remote work is more sustainable, as well as some factors company leaders should keep in mind to ensure their organization’s remote work arrangement is helping the environment.

Fewer cars commuting to work

Research supports this assessment. If employees who are able to work from home did so for half their work schedule, greenhouse gases would decrease by 54 million tons, according to Global Workplace Analytics, a research-based consulting organization located in San Diego.

Less packaging and food waste

Food waste and the types of materials used for food packaging are two major environmental issues.

Food and food packaging make up almost 45% of the items put in landfills, according to a 2014 Environmental Protection Agency report.

Food packaging in particular comes into play in an office environment.

Opportunities for office efficiency

Expanding remote work options can open up opportunities to decrease company office space. Heating or cooling a smaller space requires less energy, reducing a company’s direct emissions.

“If you’re downsizing in the office sector, then you are achieving additional [energy] savings,” said Steve Sorrell, a professor of energy policy at the University of Sussex.

Less air travel

Remote work arrangements now extend to beyond employees doing their day-to-day work at home. Thanks to more virtual events, options to attend work conferences remotely have increased compared with in-person events, which require that many conference attendees fly.

Remote work factors to keep in mind

While remote work can help the environment in a variety of ways, company leaders should make sure remote work’s positive impacts aren’t negatively affected by other employee or company behaviors.

“We shouldn’t see telework as a panacea [for the environment],” Sorrell said.

For example, employees who work from home might get antsy and run an errand or go on some other outing using their car.

In addition, company leaders should examine their organization’s lighting, heating and cooling arrangements for their office building. Lighting, heating and cooling an office space is a waste of energy if employees aren’t in the office.

10 ways to cultivate a productive work environment and inspire your employees to excel | Jessie Wilson, Theeagle.com

Instead of hitting your team with another motivational speech, try out some of these tips for cultivating a productive work environment. These strategies are proven to help inspire your employees to push themselves to higher heights. Keep reading to find out more.

1.Hire Strategically

During the recruiting process, companies tend to prioritize technical ability above all. While technical skills are certainly important, you also need to focus on finding the right fit for your team. Bringing on the wrong people can negatively affect your entire team.

2. Prioritize Onboarding and Training

Once you start the hiring process, you’ll need to prioritize the onboarding and training of new employees. An employee’s first two weeks are crucial to their success at your company. This is also an essential time for them to integrate into your team.

3. Conduct Regular Check-ins

Conducting check-ins with your employees is an effective way to help them excel. It provides dedicated one-on-one time for you and each member of your staff where they can voice their concerns. It also helps them to know they have a voice at your company.

4. Empower Your Employees

There are so many ways you can empower your employees in the workplace. The first step you can take is to provide them with the tools they need to perform their duties. This can include tasks like additional training, outside resources, and help when they need it.

5. Set Clear Goals

Employees tend to perform at a higher level if they have a direct picture of what is expected of them. Having a clear vision for the future will help to give everyone on the team more guidance. You can provide this guidance by sharing the long and short-term goals you have for the company.

6. Give Your Employees Autonomy

Some workplaces tend to operate more like a classroom than an office. Nothing kills morale quicker than feeling as though you are being treated with zero respect. Respect your employees and only implement policies that have a true purpose.

7. Provide Work-Life Balance

In 2023, work-life balance is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. In fact, businesses that don’t prioritize work-life balance have a harder time retaining top talent. Approve time off when the requests are made in a timely manner, and be understanding when unexpected life events take priority over work.

8. Encourage Breaks

It has been reported in numerous studies that the most effective employees work with regular breaks in between bursts of work. If you can walk away from your computer for 15 minutes, you can avoid burnout and stay productive for longer. The issue is that many companies don’t allow breaks at this frequency.

9. Provide Opportunities for Growth

Most people start their careers lower on the metaphorical totem pole. The goal when you start a new position is rarely to stay in that position long-term. Employees need to feel like there is room for growth at your organization in order to thrive.

10. Encourage Team Building Activities

Not everyone is going to be thrilled at the concept of taking time away from work to spend with co-workers. However, research shows that team-building activities can lead to higher workplace satisfaction. Being able to bond with your team outside of the office can foster positive relationships, thus making work more fun.

Creating a Productive Work Environment

Don’t let your team fall prey to the yearly slump. Try out some of these tips and tricks for garnering motivation to help your business thrive. You and your staff will be happier and more efficient following the implementation of these methods.

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September 29, 2023

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Remote Work Digest: September 29, 2023

The latest on all kinds of information, news, and resources that help you make working remotely better.

What Can a Business Do to Improve Its Productivity? | Marc Berman, Programminginsider.com

Every year, employers bear the burden of $1.8 trillion in lost productivity. So, what can a business do to improve its productivity? Keep reading to know more.

Set Clear Goals and Objectives

To improve productivity, a business can set clear goals and objectives. This involves clearly defining what the business wants to achieve and creating a plan of action to reach those goals.

By having concrete goals and objectives, employees have a clear direction. Also, they can focus on what needs to be accomplished.

Time Management

A clear understanding of the value and importance of each task will help employees stay focused and work efficiently. Furthermore, utilizing time-tracking tools can help manage workload and reduce unnecessary work duplication.

Invest in Employee Training

A successful business understands the importance of staying competitive in the market. This is why businesses must provide employees with the skills and knowledge. With this, they can perform their tasks more efficiently.

Encourage Breaks

A business can encourage breaks for its employees to improve productivity. It may seem counterintuitive. But, breaks actually have a positive impact on productivity. It would help if workers were able to take short breaks throughout the workday. With this, they will be able to recharge and refocus. This leads to increased energy and concentration.

Effective Communication

Effective communication is the cornerstone of a successful business. A business can improve its productivity by establishing clear and open lines of communication. This is not just for employees but also for stakeholders and managers. Regular communication can be done through various channels. It can be through team meetings, emails, and one-on-one discussions. These can help in identifying challenges and aligning goals.

Productivity is the key to a successful business. A business needs to get answers on what can a business do to improve its productivity.

A business can improve its productivity by implementing strategies. You can provide training and resources for your employees. Also, it helps to evaluate their performance regularly. Don’t wait any longer. Start taking steps toward increasing productivity in your business today!

Here are some of the best places in the world to remote work from – two are in Europe | Euronews.com

It’s a well-known fact that more Europeans than ever are working remotely. The trend was greatly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic but it’s set to continue as people experiment with new ways of work.

Research shows that on average across the EU, 30% of workers regularly worked from home in 2022, either fully or in a hybrid model, with previous estimates putting that figure at as low as 5.5% in 2019, before the pandemic began.

Best international locations for expat remote employees

Madeira, Portugal

Its temperate climate and oceanside location make it appealing for expats and remote workers seeking a traditional culture at home and a modern culture in the workplace.

Because of recent infrastructure upgrades, Madeira claims to have the fastest internet speeds in Portugal. Foreign remote workers can rent hybrid ‘workation’ facilities combining housing and workspace. Rental for a two-bedroom apartment starts at about €850 per month.

Tallinn, Estonia

With competitive internet speeds and online access to virtually every public service, Tallinn offers an affordable alternative to more expensive or touristy European cities.

One major advantage Estonia offers for digital nomads and remote workers is a flexible residential and visa policy. Digital nomads can qualify for e-residency status, allowing them to own and operate businesses without the required physical presence.

Bermuda

The island of Bermuda is tempting for adventurous remote workers and digital nomads considering a complete departure from the traditional corporate environment.

While Bermuda is still primarily a tourist destination noted for its pink sand beaches, it also features competitive internet capacity and well-equipped co-working spaces.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Located in Thailand’s northern hills, Chiang Mai has become a popular destination for younger remote workers and digital nomads.

There is a strong expat and digital nomad culture in Chiang Mai, although Thailand does not currently have a defined visa programme for digital nomads or temporary remote workers.

A government work permit is also required before foreign remote workers can earn any income in the country. A ‘Special Tourist Visa’ allows long-term travelers to stay in Thailand for up to 270 days.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali’s thriving international community and abundance of co-working spaces make it easy for foreign workers to set up shop, find accommodation, and build a social network within the city’s borders.

There is also a digital nomad visa planned for Bali.

The government of Bali and private investors have significantly improved its digital infrastructure, with Wi-Fi access widely available in public areas and communal workspaces.

Bangalore, India

The bustling city of Bangalore has been called the Silicon Valley of India because of its tech-friendly economy and well-trained local workforce. Remote workers and digital nomads can easily find a niche in the city’s business district. Bangalore’s climate is relatively mild compared to other regions of India, which makes it a more comfortable environment for foreign workers.

The country also offers a long-term visa for foreign professionals seeking to work remotely in India. While no specific visa programme exists for temporary remote workers or digital nomads, a traditional work visa can be extended for up to five years.

15 Career Hacks That Help You Get What You Want In Life, Too | Michele Molitor, Yourtango.co

When it comes to taking your career success to a new level, there are some fundamental things you should keep in mind.

No matter where you’re from, I’ve found these things to be pretty much universal.

Read through the list and see what resonates most for you, as well as which ones sting a little or give you pause. Those are the ones you need to pay particular attention to.

Here are 15 powerful career hacks (that work for the rest of your life, too)

1. Deep breathing

First, take a deep breath and chill out a little.

You don’t have to have everything figured out today.

2. Knowing your core values

Identify your core values and compelling “why.” Then, align your work to these beliefs. The more aligned you are, the better your career will flow.

3. Being aware of the best use of you

Ask yourself: What’s the highest, most valuable use of your time, energy, and talents over the next 12 months?

4. Doing what you love

Notice what pulls you forward in your work and fills your cup — the things you do where time disappears.

Then find ways to do more of that, more often.

5. Knowing your “don’t want’s”

Notice what’s not working for you and move those obstacles out of the way.

Write down what you “do want” and what you “don’t want” in your life and career as you move ahead.

6. Using your brainpower

If you’re bored, then you’re not being challenged, and you’re not growing.

Do you want to choose growth or stagnation for yourself?

7. Being aware that failure is still learning

Learn from your mistakes and missteps and then move forward with those lessons front of mind while leaving the scars in the past.

8. Following the wisdom

Hang out with people wiser than you — learn from their mistakes, so you can avoid them.

And then, even maybe, leap-frog right over them to even greater success.

9. Being wary of false truths

What false truths are you telling yourself? What old beliefs and decisions about yourself are holding you back from achieving all that you know in your heart, you’re capable of achieving?

Here’s a hint: You are enough.

10. Being true to yourself

Live authentically. Find your way to share your gifts and unique talents with the world. Different is beautiful.

11. Giving yourself permission

Full permission to be yourself, to listen to your heart and spirit, and create a life you love.

You’re worth it.

12. Knowing what’s needed now

What steps can you take today to move you forward in the direction of your goals and dreams?

Identify the hard stuff and do those things first.

13. Doing some “out of the box” thinking

Open up your vision to the possibilities that are all around you, versus what you think they should look like.

Notice where your fears are trying to fool you to stay inside the box as well.

14. Being invested in the game

Do you have an investment in the game? What’s your catalyst or carrot for moving yourself forward?

Use this as a motivator and let it fuel the fire in your belly to help drive your success.

15. Choosing joy

Each day, choose the perspective that lifts you up and motivates you from the inside out.

As you find more joy in each day, you’ll feel better and much happier, which triggers the happy chemicals in your brain (dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins).

All of which helps to increase your confidence and well-being! And guess what? Other people like working with happy people, so create a win-win!

11 Remote Jobs You Can Do That Don’t Need Any Qualifications | Jack Turner, Tech.co

Data Entry

As the name suggests, the role consists of inputting data into a database from another source. Typically, it’s from one electronic source to another, although some roles may send employees paper documents to take information from.

Ideal skills: You’ll need to be computer literate, and ideally have a good eye for detail. The job can also be very monotonous, so you’ll need to be able to deal with repetitive tasks without issue.

2. Language Tutor

One of the most common entry level roles in teaching is teaching languages. Typically these will be one on one, and the students can be children or adults. Some online platforms require a bachelor’s degree, but not all.

Ideal skills: You’ll need to have a perfect grasp of the language you’re teaching, and be a good communicator too. You’ll also need to keep in mind timezone differences, as your students are likely to be outside the US.

3. Customer Service Representative

There are plenty of remote jobs in customer service – any company that offers a product or service will need customer service representatives to respond to questions, take orders, arrange bookings, deal with complaints, and more.

Ideal skills: You’ll need good communication skills, and ideally be a fast typer if you’re dealing with online messages. If you’re fielding calls over the phone, make sure you have a quiet work environment in your home.

4. Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants will typically help out with day to day tasks, such as calendar scheduling, managing emails, booking travel appointments, and so on, but it can be a very varied role, depending on the industry.

Ideal skills: Good communication, time management and the ability to problem solve and juggle multiple tasks are all beneficial to being a virtual assistant.

5. Community Manager

A community manager is responsible for being the face of an organization – usually over social media, or online forums. They are expected to liaise with customers and the community on a daily basis, and answer questions, create content and, in some cases moderate content too.

Ideal skills: For this role you’ll need excellent communication skills, as well as the ability to find answers quickly to questions that are asked.

6. Sales Representative

Sales roles are likely to be phone based, and usually involve tight targets with high expectations. If you can thrive in a pressured environment, and can handle rejection from potential customers, a remote sales job may suit you.

Ideal skills: You’ll need to have excellent people skills, the ability to talk positively about the product or service you’re selling, and be target oriented.

7. Translator

If you know two or more languages, then a job in translation could be an ideal fit. There are many remote translation roles available, and they cover a huge spectrum of industries, including anything from translating medical information, to checking advert copy for foreign markets.

Ideal skills: It goes without saying that you’ll need to be fluent in at least two languages. It may also help to be aware of cultural nuances, and if you’re translating documents, fast typing skills are a must.

8. Content Writer

If you’ve got a knack for writing compelling copy, then a remote content writer role could be your next job. Roles can be either freelance or permanent, and the sky’s the limit as to what you could find yourself writing about, whether it’s recipes or online guides.

Ideal skills: Excellent writing skills of course, as well as the ability to write at speed. Many writing roles pay by the piece, so the more you can produce, the more you’ll get paid.

9. Proofreader

A proofreader will read a text, noting typing errors and grammatical errors, and because the job is mainly reading, it’s an ideal role for those looking to work remotely.

Ideal skills: You’ll need to have a keen eye for detail, be proficient in the language of the copy, and know your colons from your commas.

10. Transcriptionist

While it’s true that some companies have turned to software to transcribe audio these days, there is still a need for transcriptionists out there.

In the role you may be tasked with transcribing TV shows, films, podcasts, and more. The role tends to be freelance, giving you the chance to work for several companies at the same time.

11. AI Prompt Engineer

Of all the jobs on this list, this one is the new hotness. A prompt engineer essentially gives instructions to an AI platform, such as ChatGPT, to get it to produce anything from copy, to program code, to images.

As the field is still relatively new, it’s a great time to get in, and, providing you’re comfortable with AI and know how to create killer prompts, it can be quite lucrative.

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Remote Work Digest: August 29, 2023

The latest on all kinds of information, news, and resources that help you make working remotely better.

11 Skills Small Business Owners Need To Have in 2023 | Catherine Collins, Finance.yahoo.com

Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or the CEO of a small team, small business owners in 2023 need to have a range of skills in order to compete effectively in the marketplace. Here are eleven of the most important.

Communication

It’s ironic that we have so many different ways to communicate with colleagues and customers, yet so much gets lost in translation and tone. Improving communication skills can go a long way in meeting customer needs, as well as creating a healthy work environment.

Digital Marketing

Learning about growing an email list, marketing to customers, copywriting and running social media ads can help entrepreneurs grow their small businesses over time.

Money Management

Managing money, budgeting, organizing receipts and paying quarterly self-employment taxes are necessary parts of running a business. A business owner who wants to grow and thrive in 2023 would be wise to take the time to understand their day-to-day business finances.

Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence, also known as EQ, means you can understand emotions. Someone with a high EQ can sense other people’s feelings and empathize with them when necessary. It’s a crucial skill for a business owner to have, especially if they are interacting with customers or employees on a daily basis.

Time Management

Unlike a 9-to-5 job, it’s hard for business owners to completely log off for the day. Running a business takes significant mental space, and learning better time management skills can help with work/life balance as well as productivity.

Innovation

It’s important for business owners to think dynamically about their products and services and regularly think about ways they can better serve their customers.

Networking

Attending conferences and industry events is a great way to learn about innovations in the field and also meet fellow business owners. It’s also important to use tools like LinkedIn and local meetups to collaborate and cross-promote.

Remote Team Management

Teams that typically interacted in office buildings suddenly had to navigate the world of remote work. Because so many workers now enjoy the flexibility of working from home, understanding how to manage teams in a remote environment is a useful skill for business owners in 2023.

Cultural Competence

The world is a diverse place, and as such, it’s important for businesses to have a diverse workforce and serve diverse customers. Getting training to ensure your business and business practices consider diversity and inclusion is a respectful way to ensure you can attract top talent and create a successful work environment.

Resilience

Running a small business can be emotionally exhausting, and the path isn’t linear. You could have your best months followed by your worst months and vice versa. What typically contributes to a small business’ success is grit and resilience.

Final Thoughts

Only with continuous learning and resilience can businesses continue to find success in a new landscape. The business world has changed dramatically, especially since the pandemic, and business owners need to find new ways to market, network, communicate and lead to thrive in 2023.

10 ways to deal with and manage stress at work | Rich Henson, Hrmorning.com

Daily stress, like meeting deadlines and providing deliverables, is challenging enough. But when stress becomes chronic, it’s overwhelming and harmful to your physical and mental health.

10 steps to avoid work stress

1.Identify what stresses you

It’s essential to learn what’s causing your stress at work. Using “mindfulness” techniques at work can help you identify what raises your stress levels.

A great way to stay mindful is to keep a journal, even if only for a brief period, like a week or a month. At moments when you’re feeling particularly stressed, write down a quick description of the situation. You‘ll get better – and faster – at it.

2. Set boundaries

Allowing work to take over your life is bound to create stress. And the most common way for this to happen is by routinely replying to emails after hours. It’s toxic. And when after-hour responses become the norm, you’re the only one who can put your foot down.

Step one is to set firm boundaries. Set an example by respecting your team’s lives outside of work. And don’t send or encourage work emails or communications late in the evenings or on weekends.

3. Develop healthy responses

Many of us tend to fight stress with food or alcohol, so do your best to make healthy choices when you feel the tension rise. Any form of physical activity is a great stress buster (e.g., yoga, walking, swimming, gardening, cleaning).

Add quality sleep to your list of healthy things to do. Build sound sleep habits by limiting your caffeine intake late in the day and minimizing stimulating activities, especially screen time, before bed.

4. Take quick breaks

Simple quick breaks that put distance between you and the source of your immediate stress can work wonders.

Walk to your car to “get something.” Watch a two-minute video on YouTube or TikTok. Call a friend and say “Hi.” Go to the bathroom. Any quick distraction that can remove you from a stress-creating situation helps.

5. Stop trying to be perfect

Naturally, you want to “give it your all” when it comes to your career. But try not to be perfect at every aspect of your job. The top performers and hardest workers tend to deal with stress the most.

Self-awareness is your best friend in these situations. Whether it’s accepting that no one is perfect or realizing some people can do some things better than you, if perfection is your obsession, try to get a handle on it.

6. Get organized

Organizing your work life is a great stress reducer. Develop an organizational plan that’s easy to maintain, and stick with it. A basic component is a good filing system that works. There are countless examples online. Find one and use it.

This will save you time in the long run by making everything easily accessible. Consider creating rituals for your daily life. These may include personal routines like making tea before work or going on a walk every day during your afternoon break.

7. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

The workplace of the 21st century is becoming increasingly competitive and stressful. It’s more important than ever to have a mentor or coach to guide you through your career, especially if you feel unsure of your next steps.

8. Talk to your supervisor

Employee health has been linked to productivity at work, so your boss has an incentive to create a work environment that promotes employee well-being. Start by having an open conversation with your supervisor.

The purpose of this isn’t to lay out a list of complaints, but rather to come up with an effective plan for managing the stressors you’ve identified. This will allow you to perform at your best on the job.

9. Get comfortable

You might not notice you’re stressed if you’re sitting in an uncomfortable chair for a few minutes. But what if you practically live in that chair at work? You might have a sore back and be more reactive to stress because of it.

Even small things like noises or a colleague’s humming can be distracting and cause feelings of low-grade frustration. Do what you can to create a quiet, comfortable and soothing workspace.

Practice these 10 stress relievers

Count to 10 before you speak or react.
Take a few slow, deep breaths until you feel your body start to unclench.
Go for a walk, even if it’s just down the hallway and back.
Try meditation or a prayer to reset.
If it can wait, let it sit overnight.
Break down problems into smaller parts and tackle them one step at a time.
Hug a friend.
Find a colleague you can confide in.
If you owe your mom a phone call, take a few minutes to call her
Do something simple you’ve been putting off, like making that dental appointment.

Boosting Employee Productivity: Effective Strategies for Success | Richard, Streetwisejournal.com

From maintaining a great office environment to leveraging modern tools, we’ve got you covered with a variety of strategies that will transform your workplace into a productivity powerhouse.

Strategy 1: The Power of a Great Office

Maintaining a Clean Environment: Commercial Cleaning

A clean and organized office is the foundation of employee productivity. When employees walk into a well-maintained environment, they feel valued and motivated. Consider hiring a commercial cleaning service to ensure that your office space is consistently spick and span.

Strategy 2: Flexible Work Arrangements

Embracing Remote Work: Work-From-Home Options

Granting team members the flexibility to operate from home, even intermittently, can foster improved job contentment and a harmonious work-life equilibrium, elevating their overall output.

Strategy 3: Invest in Professional Development

Continuous Learning: Training and Skill Enhancement

Allocate resources to skill-enhancing endeavors, seminars, and instructional sessions, enabling them to refine their expertise and stay abreast with sectoral shifts. When they sense the firm’s commitment to their progression, their drive to excel intensifies.

Strategy 4: Encourage Regular Breaks

Mindfulness Breaks: Meditation and Relaxation

Encourage your employees to take regular breaks throughout the day. Short breaks can actually enhance focus and creativity. Consider setting up a relaxation or meditation space in your office where employees can recharge their minds.

Strategy 5: Embrace Technology Tools

Utilizing Productivity Apps: Task Management and Collaboration Tools

From task management apps that help organize daily to-do lists to collaboration tools that streamline teamwork, these tools can transform how your employees work. Platforms like Trello, Asana, and Slack facilitate efficient communication and task tracking, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and tasks are completed promptly.

Strategy 6: Recognition and Rewards

Celebrating Achievements: Employee Recognition Programs

Feeling valued and appreciated is a strong motivator. Implement employee recognition programs to acknowledge and reward outstanding performance. This can range from a simple “Employee of the Month” award to bonuses or additional time off.

Strategy 7: Clear Communication and Goal Setting

Setting Expectations: Transparent Communication

Clear communication is the cornerstone of a productive workplace. Ensure that your employees are aware of their roles and responsibilities, and that they understand the company’s goals and objectives. Regularly communicate updates and changes to keep everyone informed and aligned.

In conclusion

Boosting employee productivity isn’t about enforcing strict rules or pushing your team to the brink. It’s about creating an environment that nurtures their growth, respects their well-being, and leverages modern tools and techniques to maximize their efficiency.

Essential skills for remote leadership | Thunderbird School of Global Management, Forbesindia.com

Back view of businesswoman talk with team business partner using video call on laptop discuss work project online. Video conference, Online meeting concept

Common problems leaders experience when managing remote teams and actionable strategies to overcome them.

Remote leadership challenges

Remote leadership comes with a unique set of challenges that can make it difficult to manage a team effectively. One of the most significant challenges is communication.

Communication

The lack of in-person interaction can make it harder to build trust and rapport. Written communications can also make it difficult to ascertain tone and lead to misunderstandings and conflicts.

Lack of team cohesiveness

Effective teams work toward the same goal, utilizing each team member’s strengths to achieve results. This can be difficult to create in a remote environment, especially in teams with a mix of in-office and remote members.

Managing time zone differences

Managing remote employees that work from different time zones can be challenging. Something as simple as setting meetings suddenly requires extra planning and flexibility as workers from later and earlier time zones work to find a time that is neither too early or late.

Maintaining company culture

Having a positive company culture can even help recruit and retain workers, but maintaining it is difficult with remote teams. This is especially problematic when onboarding new employees.

Tracking productivity

Keeping workers productive is an important part of management, but how do you ensure productivity in remote teams? Shifting from measuring the number of tasks checked off a list to more remote-friendly measurements isn’t easy for many leaders, but it’s necessary.

Tips for managing remote teams

Elevate your communication skills

Improving communication skills can help remote leaders create a more supportive and collaborative work environment. It can also reduce the frustration that comes with misunderstanding tone or instructions.

Provide regular feedback

Your remote team needs more than a list of to-dos that get crossed off. They also need feedback. Providing regular feedback may happen organically when you work in the same office, but in a remote environment, it takes more effort.

Measure productivity differently

Productivity has traditionally been measured by the time a worker spends working and the number of tasks they complete. This approach to leadership is largely ineffective when managing remote employees. Reducing an employee’s worth to how many items they check off a list fails to properly value the impact of the work they complete.

Trust and build trust with your teams

Trust is an essential ingredient for building successful teams, especially in a remote environment. Unfortunately, it is one of the more difficult challenges faced by remote leaders and their teams.

Set clear expectations

Setting clear expectations is essential for achieving success in any organization, but it is especially important for remote teams. When workers understand what is expected of them, they are better able to focus their efforts, stay on track, and meet performance standards.

Establish the team’s purpose

When setting expectations for your remote team, start by defining specific goals and objectives that align with the organization’s mission and vision.

Practice empathy

Leaders may be obligated to focus on business objectives, but that is not where the job description ends. We are humans first and employees second, but leaders sometimes forget this due to the pressure involved in reaching company goals. As a remote leader, it is even easier to forget that the people on the other side of the screen are real humans juggling life and work.

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Remote Work Digest: July 30, 2023

The latest on all kinds of information, news, and resources that help you make working remotely better.

Five Steps To Jumpstart Your Employee Digital Transformation Journey | Anshul Sheopuri, Forbes.com

Transformations rarely achieve their full potential. Being intentional about the accelerators to jumpstart digital transformation of your employee journeys can maximize your chances for success. Here are five steps to get started.

1.Start with the business and user problem.

We all experience products and services with a compelling value proposition day to day, whether it is a smartphone, cloud storage or an electric vehicle. What is common across these is that they solve a user problem differently. For example, as opposed to simply making floppy disks smaller or the experience of transferring data with floppy disks better, cloud storage solutions get to the root of the user problem to store data at scale, securely, seamlessly and at low cost.

2. Create an employee digital storefront to unleash clarity and adoption.

Over the past decade, digital storefronts for customers have mushroomed across a variety of industries. While this has helped obfuscate organizational complexity to customers, in many cases, this has also resulted in too little incentive to simplify organizational structure and organize work around the customer.

3. Activate an operating model with user experience as the clue to galvanize the organization.

Just like software or product organization operating models have become more standardized with the competency areas around product management, development and design, other capabilities that organizations deliver, for example, accounting services, sales operations and human resources, need to operate with clarity of accountability points and structure. This is even more critical in moments of significant change and requires intentional moments of conversation and reinforcement:

• Co-creation with users and stakeholders.

• Continuous improvement with an outside-in lens.

• Candid feedback, creating safe spaces for difficult conversations.

• Celebration, coming together as a team to reflect and celebrate key milestones.

4. Diagnose and instrument root causes versus the symptoms.

Since the root causes span across process, technology and data management, the solutions need to be multifaceted as well, including automated data quality management, defined software testing process and user-centric journeys.

Quick wins matter. Communicate how progress is being made via improvements in data quality. But remember that the right quick wins that address root causes (versus only the symptoms) matter more.

5. Compliance is table stakes – set the bar with voluntary adoption of higher ethical standards.

Taking a compliance-centric approach is table stakes. Set the bar for your organization with voluntary adoption of higher ethical standards to future-proof your posture in line with the organization’s values. While this can feel daunting, remember that companies are at different points in this journey, and it can be helpful to work together to define common standards in new and emerging areas.

Employee journey transformations are a significant opportunity for employee experience and business outcomes. Being intentional about the right stepping stones can maximize the chances of success.

8 Reasons Why You Should Work a Full-Time Job Before Freelancing | Abigale Lim, Makeuseof.com

The allure of freelancing is undeniable. The freedom to work on your terms while earning a high income is undoubtedly appealing. But before you take the plunge into a full-time freelance career, consider the benefits of staying in a nine-to-five job first. Let’s explore why working a traditional full-time job before freelancing can set you up for long-term success as a freelancer.

1.Gain Practical Training

Working in a structured environment allows you to hone these skills. You can learn freelance skills by watching YouTube videos or enrolling in a course. But you’ll gain these skills much faster and get paid while learning if you work a full-time job first.

2. Get Help from Experience Colleagues

In a traditional work setting, you’re surrounded by experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds. Many companies have mentorship programs and feedback systems in place. Leveraging the knowledge and expertise of superiors can benefit your personal and professional growth.

3. Expand Your Network

Working full-time exposes you to a network of professionals. Clients, vendors, leaders, recruiters, and industry peers are your most beneficial professional connections. Building solid relationships with these individuals can open doors to future freelance opportunities.

4. Build Your Emergency Fund

Unstable income is one of the risks of freelancing, especially in the initial stages of your career. Since you don’t have an employee-employer relationship with clients, you can lose your source of income without warning.

A full-time job provides a stable income. It also offers benefits like paid leaves, bonuses, and health insurance plans. As a freelancer, you don’t get paid if you go on vacation. You don’t get paid if you’re sick and can’t work. An emergency fund that will last at least six months will lessen your stress during these moments.

5. Build a Strong Work Ethic

Soft skills such as self-discipline and time management are essential skills of a successful freelancer. As a freelancer, you set your work schedule and choose your projects and clients. It’s easy to procrastinate and lose sight of your workload. The work ethic you develop in your full-time job will be crucial to your success.

6. Learn From Your Mistakes

Working full-time as a young professional provides a safe space to learn and grow from these errors. Many companies offer free training for their employees. Your colleagues and superiors can also provide feedback, helping you avoid similar pitfalls in your future freelance projects.

7. Build Your Portfolio

A diverse and impressive portfolio is a freelancer’s best marketing tool. It attracts potential clients and displays your capabilities. While working full-time, you can work on various projects that can expand your portfolio.

8. Test the Freelance Waters

There are many simple freelancing jobs you can learn easily. Take time to discover the role that fits your skills best. As you gain confidence and experience, you can gradually transition to freelancing full-time.

Embrace the learning opportunities that come with a full-time job. When the time is right, you can venture into freelancing with confidence. If you’re sure that freelancing is for you but can’t let go of the benefits of your traditional job, consider doing both. Holding a freelance job while freelancing as a side hustle works for many professionals.

Tips to avoid loneliness when working from home | Rhymer Rigby, Fm-magazine.com

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a shift to remote work that was already happening. But while people may love the lack of a commute and the freedom, they may also miss the social side of the office. A 2021 survey of 2,000 UK and US office workers by Kadence, the hybrid workplace software company, found that 81% of workers under the age of 35 and 64% of workers over 35 were concerned about loneliness if they were to continue to work from home full time. Other research has drawn links between tech-enabled distance working and loneliness. So, if you are feeling isolated while working remotely, what can you do about it?

Get outside

If you were at work all day, you wouldn’t just sit at your desk from nine to five. So don’t do this at home. Take a break and get out of your home office.

Set up social media groups

One of the problems with remote work is that you miss the informal chit-chat and serendipitous meetings you have in the office. So, re-create these on social media apps. The ability to make off-the-cuff comments and chat informally is invaluable, and messaging apps significantly reduce the barrier to informal commenting (an email, by comparison, is quite formal).

Attend Zoom or Teams meetings

As much as we can moan about video meetings, they do capture some of the feeling of being together in person. We can see our colleagues and read their facial expressions and feel to an extent that we’re with them.

Make phone calls

The rush to video during the COVID-19 pandemic (and an addiction to messenger apps) means the phone often gets overlooked as a form of communication. But if you have sent a dozen messages or emails, really, you should be making a phone call. It can be far more efficient — if someone doesn’t quite understand what you’re asking, you can clarify what you mean in real time.

Don’t always work at home

Just because you’re working remotely doesn’t mean you always have to be in the spare bedroom. Investigate other options such as coffee shops, co-working spaces, or libraries. These will deliver an office-like experience. And if you go once a week, even if you don’t know people at first, you’ll soon be on nodding terms with other regulars.

Encourage your company to have meetups

There is no substitute for meeting face to face. But the good news is a little goes a long way. You only have to meet up with colleagues once every few months to improve your virtual relationships and make them feel deeper and more meaningful.

Consider a pet

If you’re in it for the long run, a dog or cat can make a big difference — and, what’s more, they’ll never try to micromanage or take credit for your work.

Don’t be afraid to admit you’re lonely

Talking and sharing helps enormously, and you may discover other remote workers have the same problems you have. Your company may also be able to provide you with help under its mental health policy.

Avoid overwork

One of the mistakes many people make when working remotely is believing that they have to fill every moment with work. But you don’t have to use the time you once spent commuting chained to your desk, and you can take a lunch hour. Measure what you do by work output, not hours put in.

Talk to your company about coming in

Employees often ask to be allowed to work from home two or three days a week. So, assuming the office isn’t hundreds of miles away, why not turn this on its head and ask if you can “work from work” once a week? Loneliness can have an enormous negative effect on both your mental health and your productivity. If you are suffering from it, tell your employer. They are likely to want to help in any way they can.

9 pro tips for creatives working from home | Tina Touli, Creativebloq.com

It’s easy to plonk a laptop on the dining table or coffee table and work away, but that probably isn’t going to be comfortable in the long run, and your work may suffer too. Below, the art director and designer Tina Touli offers nine pro tips to consider when honing your home work set up, from your surroundings to your screen (see our pick of the best 4K monitors for options there).

Manage screen brightness

Work in intervals on maximum brightness so that you can get the best out of your colours without damaging your eyes.

Keep organised

Work from everywhere without any technical difficulties by keeping mobile hard drives nice and organised so you can work on your files without taking over your memory!

Invest in a good screen

Your laptop is your friend for when you are out and about, but a great screen will pay dividends when it comes to working in your studio. I recommend a Dell UltraSharp; the colours are so accurate I have barely touched the default settings.

Don’t be afraid of contrast

Don’t be afraid of contrast – Full black or white can be daunting, but be brave! I love high contrast, even B&W, but colours are my favourite. Vivid bright colours.

Light up your room (and your screen)

With bias lighting behind your screen and some clever atmospheric lighting in the room, you can create some separation between work and leisure.

Keep your environment neutral

Keeping your environment neutral can bring out the colour in your work. I tend to keep the studio space more neutral in terms of colour (of course there are little pops of colour around) and even my desktop wallpaper is just a solid grey colour. I feel like it helps me better shape/check the colour palette of every project I am working on.

Listen to music

Science says 60-70 bpm playlists are best to maximise concentration but I love everything from rock music to house. The music I choose depends on my mood, the project I am working on, even the time of the day, but music for working is definitely key.

Print your work

Screens like a Dell UltraSharp allow us to see a lovely range of colours that are super close to what you get on print, something very important for multidisciplinary designers like myself.

Consider a standing desk

Standing desks are your friend, especially if you need to draw on a tablet. I love using a sitting desk when working on the computer but a standing one when I experiment by hand, blending the analogue and the digital worlds (see our guide to the best standing desks for possible options).

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Remote Work Digest: May 25, 2023

The latest on all kinds of information, news, and resources that help you make working remotely better.

3 Ways Employers Can Optimize Hybrid Work | Michael Timmes, Forbes.com

Because hybrid work appeared in the business world so recently, most organizations continue to tweak their hybrid work programs to optimize the returns. Optimization of hybrid work will require organizations to focus on employee engagement and collaboration, place trust in workers and frontline managers and balance employee preferences with business needs.

1.Prioritize teamwork and high engagement.

Even within the same organization, different teams may have different optimal working environments. On teams where workers complete most of their work independently, one or two in-office days could be sufficient to promote collaboration and culture. However, other teams may work together frequently, making three in-office days necessary to maximize workflow.

To find that balance, HR teams should attempt to categorize roles across an organization as independent or collaborative. If the majority of an organization’s workers fall onto one side or the other, then the simplest solution could be a standardized hybrid schedule for everyone.

2. Rely on the judgement of workers and managers.

In general, employees want to perform at a high level, and managers want to help employees accomplish their goals. Many organizations may find it beneficial to implement a hybrid system, and those that do should listen to feedback and trust teams to make minor adjustments to their own schedules.

For example, an organization may set Tuesday through Thursday as designated in-office days. However, if a team realizes that Mondays in-office are more critical to productivity than Thursdays, management should be open to that experiment. There does need to be a process in place for any adjustments, so teams feel they are treated fairly. However, as long as each compromise has clear reasoning, employees often appreciate the added flexibility.

3. Keep business needs in mind.

Communication around schedules should begin well before employee onboarding. Recruitment teams should emphasize the requirements of the job from the beginning of the hiring process, including in online job posts. This will encourage candidates who feel comfortable with an on-location schedule to apply for the role.

Recruiters may fear that non-hybrid work schedules decrease competitiveness for job candidates. However, organizations should remain firm about the employee schedules necessary to support customers or clients. Even for employees, hybrid work is not everything. The same Gallup survey cited above also found that employees would not accept a salary reduction in exchange for work location flexibility.

Conclusion

By promoting engagement and collaboration, extending trust to teams and prioritizing business needs, organizations can manage hybrid work systems for optimal performance.

Tips to transition from working-from-home to in-person | Alberta Prime Times, Townandcountrytoday.com

As companies push for a return to the physical office, the stress and anxiety of adjusting to a new routine can be overwhelming. Don’t let the transition catch you off guard – learn how to cope and thrive back in the office environment.

Dr. Haley Perlus, Sport and Performance Psychology Ph.D. offers these tips for making the transition back to the office.

Create a routine.

Establish a new routine that aligns with your work schedule, including a set time to wake up, have breakfast, and get dressed. This will help you mentally prepare for the workday and maintain a sense of structure.

Don’t ditch the workout.

It’s important not to let go of healthy habits like exercise that you developed while working from home. Exercise not only maintains overall health but also reduces stress and improves productivity.

Connect with colleagues.

As you return to the office, take the opportunity to connect with colleagues and build relationships. This can help foster a sense of community and make the workplace feel more welcoming.

Start meal prepping.

Meal prepping can be a game-changer when returning to the office after working from home. It helps save time, money and reduces stress by eliminating the need to decide on what to eat during the workday. Additionally, it can also promote healthier eating habits by enabling you to prepare nutritious meals in advance, ensuring you have access to healthy food options throughout the day.

Prioritize your mental health.

The transition can be overwhelming, so it’s important to take care of your mental health by practicing self-care and seeking support if necessary. Making time for activities like meditation, exercise, and therapy can help reduce stress and promote a healthy work-life balance.

Update your work space.

Adding plants, colorful décor, and comfortable accessories like a cozy chair or desk lamp can help create a more inviting workspace. Personalizing your work area can also boost morale and improve your overall mood and motivation while at work.

10 jobs with the most remote work opportunities | Diana-Ashley Krach, Stacker, Columbustelegram.com

Beyond productivity, employees report greater satisfaction with their remote work. That’s partly due to improved work-life balance. Research shows that more than 56% of remote or in-person employees can pause their work if needed. That flexibility, paired with remote employees no longer having to devote hours to commuting, makes telework very attractive. However, it’s still practical to note the potential obstacles, especially regarding technology. Creating a technology section on your resume can help hiring managers understand your ability to thrive with telework. For example, understanding the platforms that allow virtual meetings is essential to remote work.

Despite the challenges, many industries prove this can be a better work setting than standard offices. Keep reading to discover which jobs offer the most remote work opportunities.

#10 Project management specialists

Project management specialists help managers and their teams meet company baselines and goals. Some specialists have extensive knowledge of state and federal employment regulations and can examine an organization’s human resources procedures.

#9 Computer and information systems managers

Modern companies rely heavily on computers and internet communications and need them to be secure and reliable. Computer and information systems managers handle the details of keeping these vital machines and networks running smoothly.

#8 Lawyers

Not every lawyer spends all day in court. And even if they do, many civil court proceedings are now available through virtual platforms, making it easier for more lawyers to work remotely. Long before the pandemic began, one law firm launched with no physical offices; it is now one of the 200 top-grossing law firms in the country.

#7 Software developers

Software developers look at each piece of a software system like a puzzle, designing each section and determining how they fit together.

#6 Management analysts

A management analyst gets the call when a company needs an efficiency update. These analysts evaluate operations to help their clients boost revenue and reduce costs. Part of that process involves interviewing staff, which they can do remotely, along with reviewing the company’s financial records.

#5 Architectural and civil drafters

Those with an advanced degree in architecture, engineering, or construction management and a healthy dose of creativity may be well-positioned for remote work. Depending on a drafter’s experience level, a typical day might include developing detailed plans and drawings for commercial buildings and construction projects. Those projects can consist of essential highways and sewage disposal systems, and drafters must conduct extensive research about any technical aspect that could impact designs.

#4 Market research analysts and marketing specialists

Before an organization launches an advertising campaign, it brings on a market research analyst to save time and money. Analysts thoroughly research regional, local, and internet markets to determine a product’s or service’s viability. With that insight, analysts can figure out how well a product will sell or how a campaign will perform.

#3 Software quality assurance analysts and testers

Software quality assurance analysts and testers develop ways to look closely at software systems and identify problems. Through documentation of those defects, analysts can create a bug-tracking system and report any issues to web or software developers. Working with those developers closely, an analyst can review software designs and help plan for modifications and improvements. Because this job requires minimal supervision, it fits nicely into a remote work environment so long as the analyst can adhere to aggressive deadlines.

#2 Sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing, technical and scientific products

Sales representatives of wholesalers and manufacturers possess specialized knowledge about how products and services can best benefit their customers. They also provide price quotes for products and services and generate contracts for purchases and sales. Building relationships is a big part of this job, which is why networking is integral.

#1 Web developers

Website developers build and maintain the functions and security of a site with regular tests, audits, and improvements. They are also responsible for communicating and coordinating with team members about content, visual presentation, and services provided on the website.

6 Employees Productivity Red Flags and How to Fix Them | Henry Smith, Techbullion.com

The team of employees is the most valuable asset in any organization. Employees react differently to the world around them. External and internal factors can negatively affect your team’s productivity. Organizing a team building activity can help every employee relax, bond, and accommodate each other for better productivity in the future.

Employees are constantly at loggerheads

It is not unusual for employees to disagree and see different issues from divergent points of view. However, when disagreements get in the way of meaningful criticism, it’s time to get your team outdoors. Conflicts can be between one department and another or between members of the same working group. A successful manager can recognize when in-house conflict management solutions are futile.

Outright lack of collaboration and communication

Teamwork helps the organization achieve more than each individual can. Better performance, therefore requires members to effectively communicate for members to consult, air their concerns and get reliable feedback for decision-making. However, if you realize your team deliberately refuses to relay information or work together, engage in a team building event.

Toxic work culture

A toxic culture can be lack of reliable communication, disorganized workflows, and unexplained delays. Sweeping red flag signals under the carpet finally catch up with the company’s performance. High staff turnover and constant burnout are likely consequences of unbearable work culture.

Low morale to work

A keen manager should notice when the employees’ morale is gone. While your team members may not always report 100% unmatched output every day, a significant drop in work morale is obvious. The usual lively chatter may turn into a damp silence cutting across the departments. Other times, members may show no excitement about learning new approaches or turning down opportunities to become more efficient at work.

A pattern of unending problems

Recurring issues that never seem to never get fully solved are a warning sign that all is not well with your team. Employees may feel like they’ve been warned or corrected a million times, indicating that more than mere talk is necessary. Team building activities can help improve poor collaboration, clarify company goals, and define the boundaries of one department from the others.

Undefined boundaries

When members lack responsibility, nobody would be willing to take responsibility or volunteer to do menial tasks around the office. Undefined position boundaries may lead to abuse of roles and overall poor performance.

Take away

Noticing the red flags of a demotivated team unravels communication and relationship struggles among employees in an organization. Outsourcing a team building event organizer can save your organization untold losses and poor performance.

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April 29, 2023

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Remote Work Digest: April 29, 2023

The latest on all kinds of information, news, and resources that help you make working remotely better.

Prioritizing Employee Health: Why it’s Essential for Business Success | Mark Allinson, Roboticsandautomationnews.com

Medical team standing in the hospital corridor

Employee health and wellbeing should be a top priority for businesses, both large and small. Companies that prioritize the health of their employees reap numerous benefits, including increased productivity, reduced healthcare costs, and improved employee satisfaction.

The Cost of Ignoring Employee Health

Ignoring employee health can have a significant impact on a company’s bottom line. Unhealthy employees are more likely to experience absenteeism, lower productivity, and higher healthcare costs.

The Benefits for Prioritizing Employee Health

Prioritizing employee health has numerous benefits for businesses. First and foremost, healthy employees are more productive. When employees feel good, they are better able to focus and concentrate on their work, resulting in higher quality work output.

Strategies for Promoting Employee Health

There are numerous strategies that businesses can implement to promote employee health. One of the most effective strategies is to provide wellness programs that encourage healthy behaviors. Wellness programs can include gym memberships, healthy eating options, and stress management resources.

The Significance of Mental Well-Being at Work

Businesses should prioritize mental health by providing resources such as counseling services and employee assistance programs. Additionally, promoting work-life balance and reducing job stress can help to prevent mental health issues from arising in the first place.

Building a Culture of Health

To truly prioritize employee health, businesses must build a culture of health. This means creating an environment where healthy behaviors are encouraged and celebrated. A culture of health can be built by providing healthy food options, encouraging physical activity, and promoting work-life balance.

The Role of Leadership in Employee Health

Leadership plays a crucial role in promoting employee health. Leaders must set an example by prioritizing their own health and wellbeing. Additionally, leaders should communicate the importance of employee health to their teams and provide resources to support healthy behaviors.

Leadership Role

Prioritizing employee health is essential for the success of any business. By promoting employee health, businesses can increase productivity, reduce healthcare costs, and improve employee satisfaction.

Strategies for promoting employee health include providing wellness programs, prioritizing mental health, and building a culture of health. Ultimately, leadership plays a critical role in promoting employee health, and businesses must prioritize employee health to achieve long-term success.

Here are several productivity practices popular in the tech startup world that can help you get more done in less time:

1.Prioritize Ruthlessly

When you are juggling multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders, you have to make tough decisions about what to focus on at any given time.

To prioritize efficiently, make a list of all your tasks and projects and mark them by priority. Focus on the most important tasks first and delegate or defer the rest.

2. Use The Pomodoro Technique

This technique is very efficient for people who struggle to stay focused for long periods of time. Bunching up your distractions (e.g. social media browsing) in a short time period – the break, and having a timer to signal when it is time to go back to work makes it easier to control yourself and waste as little time as possible.

3. Block Out Distractions

To block out distractions, identify what distracts you the most (e.g. social media, email notifications) and then take steps to eliminate or minimize them.

4. Practice Time-Blocking

Time-blocking is a productivity technique that involves scheduling specific blocks of time for different tasks or activities. Tech startup founders often use this technique to ensure they are making progress on their most important projects while still leaving time for other commitments like meetings or networking events.

To practice time-blocking, create a schedule for your day or week that includes specific blocks of time for different tasks or activities, and make sure not to break up your deep work blocks with meetings or other distractions. For example, you can block out 4 hours of your work day for deep work and another 4 hours for meetings and communication.

5. Automate Repetitive Tasks

Try to streamline your workflow and save time. Try out automation tools to take care of repetitive tasks like data entry, social media posting, or email management.

6. Set Goals and Deadlines

A crucial part of being productive is to judge accurately how productive you have been. At the end of the day, results are what matters, not how much you worked. To see if you are on the right track, use KPIs to measure your progress objectively and try to evaluate if your expectations were met. If your results are poor, consider pivoting and changing up what you are concentrating on.

7. Practice Self-Care

Startup success is a marathon, not a sprint. Being insanely productive for short periods of time at the cost of being unproductive in the long term is a bad strategy.

Get The Home Office You Need With These 5 Tips | Navneet Vyasan, News18.com

It’s time to revamp the space that will keep you motivated enough the entire day. Here are a few decor tips to help you change how the area looks—

Focus on functionality – Make sure that your space has enough storage if your work involves the use of equipment or a lot of paperwork and books. The desk should also have enough space to keep your laptops, and other reference materials in one place.

Think about comfort – Sitting for long hours can lead to fatigue, back pain, and other issues. You might want to get a comfortable chair that is suited for your posture and back.

Location – If you have enough space, set it up outside your room, which will help you change the setting you are in. One can also set it up near a window or balcony for some fresh air and sunlight. All in all, you should not feel suffocated since you will be working all day.

Space-saving hacks – Most homes these days are short on space. Therefore, how about a makeshift workspace? You can try setting up foldable desks that either open up to a storage shelf or hang on the wall.

Personalise – Use stationery that you are fond of. Keep stress balls, snacks, or organisers handy. Even while choosing furniture, look for colours and textures that soothe your eyes. The more vibrant the home office looks, the more you are motivated to wake up each day to work.

While there is a wide range of designs and ideas to choose from, it is important to note what is right for you.

5 Workplace Strategies for Boosting Employee Engagement and Productivity | Pedro Barboglio, Forbes.com

Employee engagement is crucial for any business looking to maximize productivity and retain top talent. According to Gallup, companies with a highly engaged workforce are 21% more profitable. However, many small to medium-sized businesses struggle to create a work environment that fosters employee engagement and motivation.

1.Provide opportunities for professional development.

By investing time and money in employees’ professional growth, a business can reassure its employees that it is committed to its workforce and create a more motivated and engaged team.

2. Offer unique benefits to foster engagement.

Collaboration is a vital component of fostering engagement and creativity among employees. The more they collaborate and work in a team toward the same purpose, the more engaged they are likely to be.

3. Offer unique benefits to foster engagement.

In today’s competitive job market, offering unique benefits can be a powerful tool for attracting and retaining top talent. There are many ways to provide benefits that foster employee engagement and collaboration.

4. Emphasize corporate social responsibility.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming increasingly crucial for businesses looking to impact society and the environment positively. By prioritizing CSR initiatives, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices, boosting employee engagement and motivation.

5. Prioritize employee mental health.

Employee mental health is vital in creating a positive and productive work environment. Businesses should prioritize employee mental health by offering resources such as counseling services, stress reduction programs or flexible work arrangements. This should come from the CEO; employees need to see that their CEO prioritizes their health and cares about their well-being.

Businesses can create a more engaged and motivated workforce by prioritizing employee engagement and implementing strategies such as those outlined in this article, increasing productivity and success. By investing in their employees, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to their workforce and create a culture of engagement and motivation.