Even worse, “toughing it out” with poor ergonomics can lead to a host of repetitive stress injuries (RSIs). It doesn’t matter what tools you choose — Zoom, Skype, Hangouts, FaceTime, etc. — there are few things more frustrating than audio cutting out sporadically and having to repeat yourself again and again. That means your office or hardware setup at home should be similar (ideally, equal) to the sort of setup you’d have in any other dedicated office setting.
Working from home has become the new norm for many industries, and as someone who recently scored a remote job in my field, I’ve had to adjust to this new way of working. While it can be challenging at times, having the right essentials can make all the difference in staying productive and comfortable throughout the day.
Comfortable Workspace
Here’s what you can expect from employers, and other office essentials. This stand from WorkEZ is technically meant for keyboards, but it totally works for a laptop (and it has a surface for a USB mouse if you use one). Versatility is the name of the game here — you can pretty much place this stand on any surface and get a more ergonomic angle, whether you’re standing or sitting (it has an adjustable height range of 2-18 inches). There’s an angle hinge as well, so you can match that to whatever feels most comfortable for wrists. You can even use it as a helpful lap desk for when you’re working from the couch or your bed (which we wouldn’t normally recommend, but it’s nice to have the option). It’s got a durable aluminum frame, too, so it should last you quite a while.
But you need to think about the long-term impact on talent attraction, productivity, employee engagement, and how minimal of a cost it is compared to being in the office. While there are tons of companies with stipends, here are a few with various ranges. Ensure you understand your company’s policy though, as some stipends are only allowed for specific things. Find a keyboard that fits your typing style, but make sure that it is ergonomically correct to help you avoid carpal tunnel and wrist strain. You’re the “new guy” (gender neutral) in town, and you have to give yourself time to learn about your new team’s way of doing things.
Also, many workers have to upload files as well, helping them work over cloud services like Dropbox and Google Drive. In these cases, it’s better to have faster speeds because it minimizes the amount of time it takes to complete each download (or upload). Fast speeds also let you multitask a lot easier, without fears that the download will freeze and you’ll have to start all over. Some offer stipends or reimbursements for equipment, like desks, chairs, or monitors, while others may only provide essential tech, like laptops.
What’s so special about Google Drive is that it’s more than just a storage and file syncing program — it allows gives you the ability to create, edit, and backup documents right within its user interface. Google Sheets, Docs, Slides, and more are all at your disposal to make and share with others that have access to the drive. Below you’ll find the top 30 companies on the FlexJobs survey, ranked in order from highest to lowest for volume of work-from-anywhere job listings. Pretty much all remote-first companies offer work from home stipends. But as remote work has grown more common and popular, other organizations are using this bonus to help attract talent.
Our team is passionate about working from home ourselves and helping other small businesses, startups, and larger organizations work better from a home office. Standups and check-ins can be completed asynchronously, though it’s still valuable to have everyone together occasionally for some high-fidelity communication, whether that’s in person or on video. This could result in some members of the team having to call in early or late in their day, so it’s a good idea to occasionally rotate which time zone the standup is held in. In essence, it’s nearly impossible to stay hyper-focused for several hours at a time.
One of the most important things for me when working from home is having a comfortable workspace. This includes a supportive chair, a desk at the right height, and good lighting. Making sure your setup is ergonomically friendly can help prevent fatigue and discomfort during long hours of work.
Reliable Technology
Having reliable technology is essential for remote work. This includes a fast and stable internet connection, a quality computer or laptop, and any other devices or software needed for your job. Investing in the right technology can save you time and frustration in the long run.
Organizational Tools
Staying organized is key to being successful while working from home. Utilize tools like calendars, to-do lists, and project management software to stay on top of your tasks and deadlines. Having a well-structured workflow can help you stay focused and efficient throughout the day.
Healthy Habits
Working from home can blur the lines between work and personal life, making it important to establish healthy habits. Make sure to take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is crucial for long-term success in a remote work environment.
Supportive Environment
Finally, having a supportive environment can greatly impact your productivity and overall satisfaction with remote work. This includes setting boundaries with family members or roommates, communicating effectively with colleagues, and seeking support when needed. Building a strong support system can help you navigate the challenges of working from home successfully.
By prioritizing these essentials, you can set yourself up for success in your remote job and make the most of this new way of working. What are your WFH essentials? Share them in the comments below!
