Teleworking

Commuter Services: TELEWORKING

Employees

Telework is an alternative to commuting each day, as some jobs can be done virtually, using only a computer, phone, and internet connection. In addition to supporting more recent social distancing mandates that resulted from the coronavirus pandemic, telework also eliminates the time you spend driving to and from work, saving on driving expenses as well as reducing traffic congestion.

10 GOLDEN RULES FOR EFFECTIVE TELEWORK:

1) Stick to a routine.  Pajamas can be tempting, but while you don't necessarily need a coat and tie, the right attire can help you mentally get in the work zone.  Even a casual polo shirt and khakis can set you up to be productive.

2) Set up a remote office space.  Even if it is not a separate room, dedicate a space to work. Part of the kitchen table is all you need for a dedicated office-like environment.  But don't sit in that dining room chair all day, an office chair will be preferable for a full-day's work.

3) Make a list.  At the end of each workday make a list of what you need to accomplish tomorrow.  To do items will be fresh on your mind, and you'll hit the ground running the next morning with less time wasted.

4) Know when to take a break.  It's difficult to know when to log-off when work is so close to home.  We are electronically connected 24/7, but unless you need to answer that email at 11pm, make it the first thing the next morning.

5) Take a walk at lunchtime.  Don't just break for a meal, use it to stretch your legs and change your environment.  If the weather is nice enough to get outside, you'll be recharged once lunchtime is over.

6) The basics still count.  To-do lists, appointments, Outlook calendar invites, all help keep you organized when you are in the office.  You'll need the same to maintain productivity in your home.

7) Hands-off those distractions.  The TV remote, I-pad, social media and the like all vie for our attention at home. You need to refrain from electronics that can distract you.  Put those aside until quitting time, you can use them guilt-free after that.

8) Don't let friends distract you, either. It's too easy to let friends distract you with text messages, phone calls, or FaceTime requests. Unless it's work-related during normal office hours, set some boundaries and stick to them just like you would in the office.

9) Unless its lunch or break-time, stay out of the kitchen. Consider your kitchen just like the break room at work: a convenient place to store lunch, or microwave some leftovers.  Don't get sucked in to cleaning up, you'll waste worktime.

10) Use commute time to your advantage.  How long does it normally take you to drive back-and-forth to work?  Bonus!  That time is now yours, what do you want to do with it?  Take care of chores that might have waited until the weekend.

Employers

Telecommuting is another way to boost your company’s productivity and plan for continuation of your business operations in case of disaster. Both employees and businesses can contact TBARTA for assistance in telecommuting solutions.