Remote Work Resources & Tips

Remote work has revolutionized the way we approach our professional lives. Whether you're a seasoned remote worker or transitioning to this new way of working, having the right resources and tips at your disposal can make a huge difference.

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of remote work, its benefits, possible pitfalls, tips for working remotely, and for those looking to land their first remote job, how to stand out in a remote job search.

Remote Work Explained

First things first, let's define remote work. It's a work arrangement that allows employees to perform their job duties from outside the traditional office setting, usually from the comfort of their homes. Remote work offers flexibility, increased autonomy, and the opportunity to strike a better work-life balance.

Benefits of Remote Work

Remote work isn't just a win for employees; it's a win for organizations too. Companies can tap into a global talent pool, increase productivity, reduce overhead costs, and foster a more diverse and inclusive workforce while employees enjoy the freedom to create their ideal work environment, save time and money on commuting, and achieve a better balance of work and personal life.

Additionally, remote work allows organizations to embrace flexibility and agility in their operations. With a global talent pool at their fingertips, companies can access a diverse range of skills and perspectives that might not be available locally. This infusion of fresh ideas and expertise can lead to innovative solutions and a competitive edge in the market.

Working remotely can be a serious productivity booster. Employees can often focus better and accomplish tasks more efficiently without the distractions and interruptions of a traditional office setting. Omdia's Future of Work study, which compiled over 300 responses from executives at large companies, highlights that 68% of enterprises believe employee productivity has improved since the move to remote work. Additional studies have shown that remote workers report higher levels of job satisfaction and lower levels of stress, leading to increased motivation and engagement in their roles.

From a financial perspective, remote work presents cost-saving opportunities for organizations and employees. Companies can reduce expenses associated with maintaining physical office spaces, such as rent, utilities, and office supplies. On the other hand, employees can save significant amounts of money on commuting, eating out for lunch, and work-related expenses. This financial relief can contribute to a better work-life balance and overall well-being.

One of the most significant advantages of remote work is the improved integration of work and personal life. The flexibility to set one's own schedule and work from any location allows for better alignment between professional obligations and personal commitments. Whether attending a child's school event, pursuing hobbies, or taking care of personal errands, remote work empowers individuals to create a harmonious blend of work and personal life.

Potential pitfalls of working remotely

Working from home isn't for everyone. While remote work offers numerous advantages, factors like isolation and lack of guidance can be deal breakers for some.

One of the major pitfalls of working from home is the blurring of boundaries between work and personal life. When your home becomes your office, it can be difficult to establish clear boundaries and separate work time from personal time, resulting in longer working hours and burnout. On the opposite end of the spectrum, if you are not disciplined during your working hours, you might find yourself doing more household chores than the work you get a paycheck for.

Additionally, remote work can be isolating, as the social interactions and camaraderie found in a traditional office may be limited. Lack of face-to-face communication can also lead to miscommunication, misunderstandings, or lack of collaboration.

By being mindful of the potential pitfalls and implementing strategies to overcome them, remote workers can enjoy the benefits of remote work while mitigating its challenges.

How to Land a Remote Job

Remote jobs are highly sought after. If you want to land one, it's crucial to go the extra mile to stand out to higher managers. To boost your chances and catch the eye of recruiters, here are some valuable tips to consider:

1. Tailor your resume and cover letter: When applying for a remote job, you should customize your resume and cover letter to emphasize your remote work experience, relevant skills, and your ability to thrive in an independent work environment. Showcase any remote projects or collaborations you've completed and highlight your achievements in remote settings.
2. Showcase your remote work skills during your interview: Remote work requires specific skills to navigate the digital landscape effectively. Highlight your proficiency with remote collaboration tools like project management platforms, video conferencing software, and communication tools like Slack, Asana, or Microsoft Teams. Emphasize your ability to manage time efficiently, meet deadlines, and maintain open and clear communication with team members, regardless of physical distance.
3. Working with a recruiter: To enhance your chances of landing a remote job, consider partnering with a recruiter like System One. We have access to a wide range of job opportunities and can help match your skills and experience with the right remote positions. We can also provide guidance on tailoring your resume, improving your interview skills, and connecting you with reputable companies that offer remote work options.

Tips for working from home

We’ve found the following tips help remote workers find their groove and be more productive.

Devote a space to work

Set up a designated area in your home where you can work without distractions. If possible, separate your workspace from the space where you do other activities. This helps you begin to associate the space with working and allows you to leave job-induced stressors “at work” when it’s time to unwind at home. If you lack space, try and find other ways to snap into work mode, e.g., lighting a candle, putting on your headphones, or turning on a desk lamp.

Establish a routine 

Establishing a routine can help you maintain productivity and create boundaries between work and personal life. Your routine should work for you and your manager. Workplaces vary in their adherence to mandatory working hours. Some general tips for developing a routine are to wake up at the same time every day, put on work clothes (yes, these can be shorts or leggings), and break your day up with little bits of exercise.

Eliminate distractions

The dog is running zoomies around the house. Your group text is going off. Your neighbor mows his lawn every day. Being able to tune out distractions and focus is an essential life skill, especially if you work from home. We polled our followers on LinkedIn to see their preferred way to get in the zone.

Set clear expectations

Communicate with your team and manager to establish expectations regarding availability, communication channels, and project deliverables.

Eat healthy foods and drink plenty of water

When your commute consists of walking from the bedroom to the home office, it's important not to overlook the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Eating nutritious foods and staying hydrated provides the fuel and nutrients necessary for optimal performance, boosts the immune system, enhances mental well-being, increases focus and concentration, and supports overall productivity. Plus, you'll just feel better.

Final thoughts

Remote work is here to stay, and with the right resources and tips, you can thrive in this new work environment. By understanding remote work, preparing for the transition, and positioning yourself as a standout candidate, you can unlock the benefits of flexibility, productivity, and work-life balance.