Most of us have been working from home since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. While many have been able to step foot in an office again, some are now just beginning to make the transition. And it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Many workplaces are offering a hybrid model that includes both in-person and remote work opportunities.
Routines are important. The new hybrid approach, while great from a flexibility standpoint, may take some time to develop good behaviors and routines. Here are five easy ways to set yourself up for success in this new model:
Create Good Workspaces in Both Home and Office
You spend a lot of time in your workspace. Make it a place you want to be. Whether you work better with a little buzz, or relish the peace and quiet, pick a set-up that will be conducive to productivity. And this will vary for every person. When in-office, you’ll have more face time opportunities, so pick a spot where you’ll be able to connect with your team members to make the most of it.
Mirror your spaces with the same equipment so that every time you move spaces, it’s a seamless transition and you’re not having to check-off your materials at the end of every day.
Make a Monthly Plan and Stick to It
Make a schedule in advance vs. on the fly. This will help you get into a good mindset and level set with the team on when you’ll be in vs. out. Not only will it help you be productive, but it will be one less thing you have to decide on a daily basis! Whether every week looks the same, or you mix-it-up, just plan it in advance.
Make “Commuting” a Part of Your Day Whether at Home or in the Office
Don’t dread the commute. Instead, bake it into your daily schedule. If it takes you 30 minutes to get into the office, then mornings when you are home, go for a 30-minute walk or sit and drink your coffee while reading the news or checking your feeds (whatever you typically do on you commute). And don’t just keep the time the same, keep the dress code the same. Regardless of if at home or in-office, chose clothing that is similar. This will help you build a sustainable routine regardless of where you work, it will tell your brain to begin to focus for the day.
Communicate with Your Team
Be proactive, open and communicative with your team on you plans. Put the days on your calendar and include your team members on the invite. If your plans change, send a quick note letting everyone know. In a hybrid approach, coworkers may make plans to land in-office on the same days as their teams, so your plan may affect others.
If comfortable, try to schedule heavier meeting days for in-office to allow for more face time and give everyone a much-needed break from virtual meeting spaces. Make plans in advance with your team. Ask coworkers for lunch or a quick walk and make the most of being together!
Be Strategic on Your Home Days
Ensure the days you are at home, you limit distractions. If you know it will be a busy day around your household, make it a priority to use that time to be in-office. On the contrary, if you know you have a task that requires no disruption or team consultation, try and schedule that task on a day when you are at home. This will allow you to really utilize the benefits of both workplaces.
Have your own tips? Leave them in the comments below!
