Tips for Unplanned Remote Work Days - i.e SNOW Days

With another winter storm day here, many workplaces are giving people the option to work from home. In today's global space a snow day rarely means a day off - it just means we need to get things done from where we are.  In some ways this can be more stressful for some, than trying to get into the office.
If you do have an unplanned remote work day, take advantage of what may be an even more productive day for you, without the stress of a bad commute!
#1 - Make sure you have a dedicated workspace. The distractions when working remote may be different than that at the office. While you might not be getting pulled into meetings like you do, the distractions are real. From being surrounded by a household list of things that could get done, to maybe having kids home from school as well.
Find a space where you can work efficiently. Close to a power source, with good lighting and space for you to work. An added bonus is having a door you can close if there are
#2 - Set a timer and take breaks. While you may not have the usual interruptions. Itcan be important to take scheduled breaks like you would at the office. Set the timer so you can get into your work. Some productivity experts recommend working in 50 minute blocks, others assert 1.5 hour blocks are even better. You get to decide, but make sure you can get some focused work in, and take breaks regularly.
#3 - Stay in touch - As you would normally, stay in touch with colleagues as appropriate
#4  - Create agreements around what remote work expectations are. This may involve times for work, remote connection to the office, security around data and connection,and what expectations are in terms of staying in touch.
#5 - Use the time to get heavier tasks done. Consider what projects you have not been able to tackle due to interruptions and schedule these in. This might be the day when you finally can check things off your list!
#6 - Consider what will help you be even more efficient next time! Days like these can be a blessing, illustrating how much actually gets done in the remote space without as many (meeting) interruptions. What do you need to be even more productive next remote work day.
As we say here, winter's not over yet!

Let us know what your favorite tips are for working remote, by sharing in the comments.

Enjoy
Jennifer

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Jennifer Britton - Potentials Realized
Author of PlanDoTrack (2019),  Coaching Business Builder (2018), Effective Virtual Conversations (2017) and From One to Many: Best Practices for Team and Group Coaching (2013). Pick up a copy of any of her books at Amazon
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