8 Winning Practices for Virtual Employees

Anyone who works from home will tell you it has many benefits, and challenges.  Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your work from home experience!

1.    Find the right Job

It is extremely imperative to find the right job when choosing a work from home position.  Here are some things to take into consideration:
·       What do I like to do?
·       What do I do best?
·       What do I have that contributes value to an organization?

2.    Dress To Impress

Don’t make the common mistake of thinking that just because you are now working from home you can look like a slob.  Preparing yourself as if you were getting ready to walk into a brick and mortar facility can actually help boost your confidence, and motivate you to stay on top of things.  Make a conscience decision to maintain a casual (not a sloppy) appearance.  Make time to practice good hygiene, eat breakfast, and don’t forget the most important part of your wardrobe is a smile.  After all you’re never fully dressed without one!

3.    Designate A Work Area

Designating a work area specifically for work is crucial. If it can be helped try not to have your work area in your bedroom as this can lead to feeling like you are still at work even when you are off the clock.  Be sure to keep your work are clean and organized and free of clutter, and distractions.

4.    Avoid Cabin Fever

·       Take your entire allotted break.  Use this time to stretch, maybe take a brief walk outside, grab a snack, or just unwind.
·       Don’t forget to take your lunch break as well.  DO NOT work through your breaks as they are in place, in order to help you collect yourself so that you can give your best performance.
In addition to taking your scheduled breaks you should remember to get out of the house.  It can be easy to become of victim of cabin fever because your work day is executed at home.  Be sure to purposely schedule outings with friends, family, and loved ones.  Don’t lose your personality and ability to socialize because you work from home.

5.    Integrity

Integrity is all about doing the right thing even when no one is observing you.
Remember, employer is trusting you to put your best foot forward at all times. With that being said be consistent and show up when you are supposed to.  Be sure:
·       That you are present and ready to work when your shift begins
·       To NEVER engage in illegal activities like fraud, theft (like stealing time or otherwise), etc.  Just because no one is there does not mean you have free reign to do as you please.
·       Be responsible and trustworthy at all times.

6.    Goals

Remember to set goals in order to make the most of your position.  Set small short term goals as well as long term goals to help encourage you to strive for the best at all times.  Always push yourself to be better than you were the day before!

7.    Be Consistent

Make the effort to be consistent.
Be sure you are:
·       punctual
·       professional
·       upbeat and ready to work.
This will help to ensure that you have a better work experience.

8.    Separate Business from Personal

When you “go to work” you need to purposely leave the drama “at home”.  Put everything else to the side and be present for the Job you are being paid to do.  Lay down any personal issues or frustrations you may be having and engage 100% in business.