Starting a New Remote Job? How to Be Successful During the First Week

Are you tired of commuting to the office every day, sitting under fluorescent lights, and packing lunch?

Does the idea of being able to work from home, stay in your pajamas, and spend more time with your family or pets sound appealing?

While working from home can certainly have its perks, it also requires discipline and organization to be successful.

If you’ve recently accepted a remote job or are considering making the switch, in this article,  we’ll discuss some helpful tips for making the most of your new work-from-home setup during your first week.

Find out: Remote Work and its Effect on Employee Burnout

9 Tips for working remotely

1. Address the fact that you’ll be sitting a lot

Sitting for long periods of time can have negative effects on your health, including an increased risk of heart disease, obesity, and even premature death.

As a remote worker, it can be easy to fall into the trap of sitting for hours on end in front of your computer, especially if you don’t have a dedicated workspace with a proper chair and desk.

That’s why it’s important to be mindful of your sedentary habits and take steps to combat the negative effects of sitting.

This can include setting reminders to stand up and stretch, taking breaks to go for a walk or do some light stretching, and investing in equipment like a standing desk or treadmill desk to give your body a break from being in a seated position all day.

By addressing the fact that you’ll be sitting a lot and taking proactive measures to combat the negative effects, you can maintain your health and productivity while working remotely.

2. Master the company’s technology and tools

One of the keys to being successful as a remote worker is mastering the company’s technology and tools.

This means taking the time to familiarize yourself with the software, platforms, and systems that your team uses to communicate and collaborate.

By doing so, you’ll be able to work efficiently and effectively from anywhere, without having to rely on being in the office to access certain resources.

Plus, demonstrating your proficiency with the company’s technology can help you stand out as a valuable team member and build trust with your colleagues.

So, make sure to invest some time in learning and mastering the company’s technology and tools – it will pay off in the long run.

3. Establish a strict schedule for yourself

One key to being successful when working remotely is to establish a strict schedule for yourself.

This means setting specific times for when you will start and end work, as well as scheduling breaks and any necessary meetings or video calls.

A strict schedule helps to create structure in your day and ensures that you are able to focus and be productive.

It also helps to prevent burnout, as you are able to take regular breaks and have a clear separation between work and personal time.

By setting and sticking to a schedule, you will be able to better manage your time and get more done.

Plus, your colleagues and clients will know when they can expect to hear from you and when you are unavailable, leading to better communication and collaboration.

Generally, establishing a strict schedule for yourself is crucial for maximizing your productivity and success when working remotely.

4. Create connections with co-workers, even from afar

One of the challenges of working remotely is feeling disconnected from your colleagues and team.

Without the daily in-person interactions and water cooler conversations, it can be easy to feel isolated and disconnected from your work community.

That’s why it’s important to make an effort to create connections with your co-workers, even from afar.

Doing this can help you feel more connected to your team, foster a sense of belonging and support, and even improve your overall job satisfaction.

Here are a few ways to create connections with your co-workers while working remotely:

• Use video conferencing tools to have face-to-face meetings and check-ins with your team.

• Stay in touch through messaging apps and group chats.

• Participate in virtual team-building activities or social events.

• Join online groups or forums related to your industry or job function to connect with other professionals and share ideas.

By taking the time to create connections with your co-workers, you can build a sense of community and support even when you’re not physically in the same location.

This can help you feel more connected and engaged in your work, and ultimately lead to a more productive and fulfilling work experience.

5. Take steps to unplug and set work-life boundaries

One of the key challenges of working from home is the blurred line between your professional and personal life.

Without the physical separation of an office, it can be easy to get sucked into work and forget to take breaks or disconnect at the end of the day.

This can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and a negative impact on your overall well-being.

To avoid these pitfalls and make the most of your remote work experience, it’s important to establish boundaries and make an effort to unplug when you’re not working.

This might mean setting specific hours for your workday, taking regular breaks to step away from your desk, or setting limits on after-hours communication.

By taking these steps to unplug and set clear work-life boundaries, you’ll be able to strike a healthy balance and be more productive and fulfilled in both your personal and professional life.

Find out: Best Tips on How to Write Your Remote Job Resume

6. Learn your co-workers’ communication preferences

Effective communication is crucial for any team, but it can be especially challenging when working remotely.

One way to ensure smooth and productive communication with your co-workers is by taking the time to learn their communication preferences.

This means finding out how they prefer to be contacted (email, instant messaging, phone, video call), how frequently they want to check in, and their availability during different times of the day.

By understanding these preferences, you can tailor your communication style to better fit with theirs, leading to clearer and more efficient communication.

Not only will this help you get your work done more effectively, but it will also show your co-workers that you value their time and are willing to adapt to their needs.

Doing this can foster stronger teamwork and a more positive work culture, even when you’re miles apart.

7. Be an advocate for yourself

One of the keys to being successful while working remotely is being an advocate for yourself.

This means speaking up and taking charge of your own work and schedule. It can be easy to get lost in the shuffle when you’re not physically present in the office, so it’s important to make sure your voice is heard and your needs are met.

Doing this can involve setting clear boundaries with your coworkers and superiors, effectively communicating your availability and schedule, and proactively seeking out opportunities for growth and development.

By being an advocate for yourself, you can ensure that you are able to fully contribute and thrive in your remote work environment.

8. Have a back-up plan

While working from home can provide flexibility and convenience, it’s important to have a back-up plan in case unexpected challenges arise.

This could mean having a backup internet connection or a plan for where to go if you lose power.

Having a back-up plan in place can help ensure that you are able to stay productive and meet deadlines, even if something unexpected happens.

Additionally, having a back-up plan can provide peace of mind and help reduce stress, knowing that you have a plan in place to handle any potential hiccups that may come up while working remotely.

So don’t forget to plan ahead and have a back-up plan in place to ensure a smooth and successful remote work experience.

9. Maintain your social life outside of work

Maintaining a social life outside of work is important for anyone, but it can be particularly challenging for those who work remotely.

When you’re not physically in an office with your colleagues, it’s easy to feel isolated and disconnected from your community.

This is why it’s important to make an effort to maintain your social life while working remotely.

Not only will it help you feel more connected and fulfilled, but it can also have a positive impact on your work.

Studies have shown that having strong social connections can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction.

So, make plans to meet up with friends, join social clubs or groups, or volunteer in your community to stay connected and engaged while working remotely.

Not only will it benefit you personally, but it will also benefit your work and overall well-being.

Looking to land a new remote job? CEOMichaelHR’s affordable resume writing service can help you showcase your best remote work skills and increase your chances of getting hired. Let our experienced resume writers help you take the next step in your career.

SUMMARY- Starting a New Remote Job? How to Be Successful During the First Week

Starting a new remote job can be exciting but also overwhelming.

To set yourself up for success during your first week, it’s important to create a designated work area, establish a daily routine, communicate effectively with your team, and make an effort to maintain your social life outside of work.

It’s also crucial to be organized and stay on top of your tasks and responsibilities. Remember to take breaks and prioritize self-care to avoid burnout.

With some discipline and organization, you’ll be well on your way to thriving in your new remote position.