We are all finding ourselves in a very different working situation. We may be used to going to an office and interacting with our teams in person. Now, we are all forced to work virtually. Our interactions are now via conference, email and phone.
To make the most of the new working environment, here are some tips from the Darren Hardy A-Team, who has been working virtually for over 5 years.
* Remember your purpose and your passion for your job.
* Use effective systems and technology to stay connected.
o Zoom meetings
o Google Docs
o Project Management tools like Microsoft Teams or Asana
* Have a huddle every Monday and Friday (using Zoom).
o Use Monday to talk about what we are going to accomplish for the week. Talk about your goals for the week and where you might need some help.
o Use Fridays as a recap. Talk about what you accomplished and give a shout out to others who did something great like: completing a big project or having a "win" with a customer.
* Make your workspace comfortable, free from distractions and furnished with quality tools, where possible. Try to have a separate space. Don't be in the kitchen or in front of the TV on the couch.
* Make it fun - your virtual meetings can be to get together for fun - happy hour; celebrate birthdays, etc.
* Use JAM Sessions to be productive. These are 60 to 90-minute uninterrupted times focusing on one task. Put a note on your door that you are not to be disturbed and letting people know when you are available.
* Pretend that are NOT home. Don't answer the door. Don't do the laundry or clean the kitchen. Don't let the kids disturb you. Don't schedule non-work-related appointments during work time. You wouldn't do those things if you were in an office.
* Don't blur work and life. Have a set start and stop time for your workday. When you are in your personal time, don't do work, don't check email, etc. Take time for you. Set boundaries.
* Make the mental shift from work to home. Leave your workspace. Go outside for a walk. Make the mental shift from work time to home and family time.
* Play the part. Dress for the office. Get yourself ready as if you are going to an office and meeting with people.
* Be consistent. Get up at the same time. Start and end the work day at the same time.
* Remember, it's not always going to be perfect. That's OK. Keep moving forward.