Working from Home: Tips for Boosting Productivity

Working from home exponentially increased during the pandemic and is now a common work arrangement for many knowledge workers. According to the 2021 American Community Survey (ACS), between 2019 and 2021, the number of people primarily working from home tripled from 5.7% (roughly 9 million people) to 17.9% (27.6 million people).

Today, having the option to work from home is essential to more and more workers. In fact, research from Owl Labs found that “if the ability to work from home was taken away, two-thirds (66%) of workers would immediately start looking for a job that offered flexibility, and 39% would simply quit.”

While many knowledge workers in the Health IT sector work from home and value the benefits of increased flexibility, no commute and better work/life balance, keeping productivity high amidst the distractions of home can be a challenge.

Here are five tips on how to keep productivity high and conquer the challenges of working from home (WFH):

1. Designate a workspace

Creating a workspace in an area that minimizes distractions and interruptions is important for increasing focus and keeping productivity on track. Consider a study which found that momentary interruptions can derail train of thought and increase the rate of errors. According to the study, interruptions averaging 4.4 seconds long tripled the rate of errors.

A separate room that sets boundary is optimum, but if space is limited, set up a workstation in a quiet, comfortable space that does not intrude on other members of the household.

To help further optimize productivity, equip the at home workspace with an ergonomic chair, position screens or monitors at eye-level and make sure that there are appropriate levels of ambient and task lighting.

2. Establish routines

Establishing and maintaining a routine is an excellent way to ensure a productive day. Set a wake up alarm and go through a normal morning routine to get ready for the day. Simple routines like making a cup of coffee, going for a run or walking the dog can create a positive mindset for kicking the workday into gear.

Using a daily planner, prioritizing tasks and setting work hours are also routines that can help boost productivity.

3. Take regular breaks

Taking regular breaks can improve productivity by recharging the mind and body. A study conducted by the University of Illinois found that study participants who took two brief breaks from their main task were able to remain focused during the entire experiment while performance dropped off for participants who took no breaks.

Setting aside a few minutes between tasks to go outside and get a breath of fresh air, stand and stretch or eat a healthy snack can increase energy, engagement and motivation. According to a survey by Airtasker, 37% of remote employees feel that taking breaks is one of the most effective ways to stay productive.

4. Try task batching

Task batching is a productivity technique that involves the process of grouping tasks of a similar nature and completing them in a single work session. Grouping and completing tasks in this way eliminates jumping from one project to another which can help manage workload, improve work quality and increase efficiency.

5. Eliminate distractions

Distractions like social media, phone notifications and television can be real productivity killers. Eliminate these distractions by logging off of social media apps, silencing unimportant notifications and resisting the temptation to turn on the TV. Wearing noise cancelling earbuds is also a good way to cut down on distractions in the home environment.

Following these tips can help conquer the challenges of working from home, keeping productivity high and projects on track.

Ready to simplify your search for Health IT job search and increase your pipeline of right fit opportunities? Create your profile on Abra today.

‍