I use Office 365 and Skype for Business to work efficiently while I’m away from the office. By utilizing the cloud, these applications enable me to have access to any program or file I need regardless of my physical location. All I really need for a productive work day is access to the internet. If you are new to working remotely or just want to ensure you’re doing everything you can be to work successfully away from the office, here are some ideas to help you get your work done.
Tip One: Have a plan for your internet connection.
The internet is your most important tool for being successful remotely. Whether you’re traveling locally or internationally, have a plan in place for where you will get your connection. When looking into hotels, ensure you will have either a direct Ethernet plugin or a WiFi connection. If you will be out and about, many cafes and restaurants have their own WiFi if you need to connect in a pinch. To take it one step further, investigate your cell phone plan. Most of us have smart phones, and some data plans and carriers allow you to use your phone as a wireless hotspot. This is especially convenient because you can get a pretty strong internet connection if your phone is getting signal.
Tip Two: Carry a notepad and pen.
This seems simple enough, but it’s also something I forget to do too often. Having somewhere to quickly write down ideas in a pinch can help you stay organized while on the go. Also, there will inevitably be a time when you won’t be able to get to internet access or your computer unexpectedly malfunctions. A notepad can be a great way to remind yourself of tasks that still need completing or to get started with ideas. Simply put, keep this around for a simple way to increase remote productivity.
Tip Three: Always plan ahead.
Depending on the specific duties required by your job, you might need to make additional plans to accommodate your needs. For example, maybe you work in sales and spend a majority of your time on the phone. Having Skype for Business, Microsoft Teams, or similar programs mean you can make calls from anywhere. But, working on-the-go from a noisy cafe might not be the best choice for your job. For this scenario, you might have a plan for quickly escaping to a quieter place when a call comes in or bringing a pair of noise-cancelling headphones with you. Keep in mind the specific needs your of potential environment and create a plan for being successful.
As long as you keep these tips top of mind and can keep yourself motivated while away from your desk, you should be able to make the adjustment rather easily. Do you have any tips for working remotely while travelling that have been successful for you? Let us know in the comments below! Looking for more insights like this? Subscribe to our blog below!
Alex Hoosz, PEI
