What To Do When Remote Working Is Not Working
Remote working has undoubtedly become a staple in today's professional landscape. The allure of flexibility, escaping the daily commute, and the opportunity to work in your pajamas has made it an attractive option for many workers- including myself!
However, there are times when remote working isn't as idyllic as it seems. In this article, I delve into some of the challenges and pitfalls of remote work and offer practical solutions for career professionals like you (and me).
The Pitfalls Of Isolation
One of the paradoxes of remote work is that while it offers freedom, it can also be incredibly isolating. Loneliness is a common experience among remote workers. According to a study by Buffer in 2023, 23% of remote workers cite loneliness as one of their top struggles when working from home.
Solution: To combat isolation, create a virtual watercooler atmosphere by organizing regular team-building activities, use video calls instead of just text chats, and make an effort to maintain open and frequent communication with colleagues.
Collaboration And Communication Challenges
Miscommunication and collaboration breakdowns can plague remote teams. Video calls don't always capture the nuances of in-person meetings, leading to misunderstandings. So, in remote work, over communicate and be intentional with doing more check-ins with your colleagues than you feel you probably need to.
Solution: Implement clear communication guidelines, leverage collaborative tools like Slack or Trello, and schedule structured team meetings to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Difficulty In Maintaining Work-Life Balance
Balancing work and personal life can be challenging when your office is just a few steps away from your bedroom. It's all too easy to overwork and suffer from burnout. We’ve got some additional support to help with prioritizing your mental health as a remote employee in a recent blog post.
Solution: Establish a structured daily schedule, create a dedicated workspace, and set clear boundaries for work hours. Resist the temptation to work beyond your established limits.
Need Help With Your Job Search?
Enroll in our online course, Find a Job Fast: The Job Search Accelerator For Career Professionals
Lack Of Accountability And Productivity Concerns
Remote workers may sometimes be perceived as less accountable and productive than their in-office counterparts. The distractions of home life can impact both the quality and quantity of work completed. Check out our Professional Development Plan free downloadable to keep you on track while working from home!
Solution: Set clear goals and regularly track your progress. Establish milestones and make use of time management techniques to ensure productivity remains high.
Technology And Infrastructure Hurdles
Inadequate technology and poor internet connectivity can be a major hindrance to remote work. This is especially problematic for those living in areas with subpar infrastructure.
Solution: Invest in reliable equipment, ensure a stable internet connection, and have backup plans in place, like a mobile hotspot, in case of technical issues. Check out some of these must-have gadgets to level up your home office too!
Management And Leadership Considerations
Managers and leaders play a crucial role in remote work success. Clear expectations, regular check-ins, and mentorship are vital components of effective remote leadership.
Solution: If you're a manager, set clear expectations and regularly check in with your team. Mentorship can help guide remote employees and foster their professional development.
It’s A Journey…
While remote work offers undeniable advantages, it's not without its challenges. The key to successful remote work lies in recognizing these challenges and addressing them head-on. Try things to help you feel more empowered in your work from home journey. If they work- great! If not, change it up.
It’s all about taking proactive steps to combat isolation, enhance communication, maintain work-life balance, boost productivity, address technical issues, and provide effective leadership. You can make remote work work for you- you just need to give yourself time and space to figure it out!
Final Thoughts…
Remote working, when done right, can be a game-changer in your career. By understanding the challenges and implementing these solutions, you'll be well on your way to harnessing the full potential of remote work. Share your experiences and insights with your colleagues to collectively make remote working a positive and productive experience.
Related:
Meet The Writer!
Hi! My name is Nadia Ibrahim-Taney and I help people design happy and fulfilling careers through authentic career coaching. My expertise includes career exploration guidance, resume writing, interview prep and LinkedIn profile optimization. My pronouns are She/ Her/ Hers and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I focus on how diverse identities impact and influence folks holistically and professionally. Please connect with me on LinkedIn or at Nadia@beyonddiscoverycoaching.com
