Working remotely has become increasingly popular over the past few years, and with the recent global pandemic, it has become a necessity for many people. As someone who has been working remotely for Encompass Health for a while now, I have learned a lot about what it takes to thrive in a remote work environment. In this article, I will share with you five things I have learned about working remotely for Encompass Health.
1. Communication is key
When working remotely, it is important to be proactive in communication. Whether it’s through email, instant messaging, or video conferencing, keeping in touch with your team and manager is crucial to the success of remote work. At Encompass Health, we use various communication tools such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom to stay connected with each other. It’s not just about sending messages or emails, you have to make an extra effort to connect with people to create a sense of community and belonging.
2. Create a dedicated workspace
Setting up a dedicated workspace is essential for remote work productivity and focus. When I first started working remotely, I would work from my couch or bed which would lead to a lack of focus and energy. It’s important to establish an area in your home, preferably a separate room, where you can work without distractions. This space should feel comfortable, organized, and equipped with everything you need to work effectively.
3. Time management is crucial
One of the biggest advantages of remote work is the flexibility it offers. However, this flexibility can also be a double-edged sword. It’s easy to get sidetracked by household chores, childcare responsibilities, or Netflix binges. To maintain productivity, you have to manage your time effectively. At Encompass Health, we have a core office hour policy which means everyone has to work within a certain timeframe. Setting routine and structure helps to keep a balance and prevent burnout.
4. Embrace technology
In a remote work environment, you are heavily reliant on technology to communicate, collaborate, and stay organized. Embracing technology and being willing to learn new tools and software is crucial to success. Encompass Health has also developed various tools and platforms to ensure seamless communication with clients as well as other team members.
5. Take breaks and connect with colleagues
Working remotely can be isolating, so it’s important to take breaks and connect with colleagues on a personal level. Engaging in social activities such as virtual coffee or lunch breaks allows you to build stronger connections with your team members and maintain a sense of community despite being physically apart.
In conclusion, remote work requires a mindset shift and adaptation of new skills. However, by embracing technology, communication, time management, creating a dedicated workspace, and connecting with colleagues, remote work can be a highly productive and successful experience. At Encompass Health, these values are ingrained in our culture, and we continuously strive to improve our remote work experience for our team members while ensuring our clients receive the highest quality care.
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