Could you have imagined a world where everyone works from the confines of their room, even the giants of tech like the ‘Big Five’? The pandemic, which we are steadily overcoming, sent shockwaves not only through organizations but also among the workforce, turning into a daunting nightmare.
Nevertheless, with time, remote work brought solace to workers, allowing them to complete tasks while staying close to their loved ones. At the same time, it made software companies realize the importance of team connectivity and time tracking for maintaining an ideal work-life balance.
According to Forbes Advisor, 16% of the companies are completely remote, creating a seismic shift in professional lifestyles. These have given rise to time-tracking tools, one of the most essential remote work tools used by organizations for tracking employees’ performance and productivity while working remotely.
In this blog, we will explore the remote work equipment workers must possess to maintain productivity while working from their homes without hindrance.
Let’s start!
Top Equipment for Remote Workers
Remote Work Checklist
- Clutter-free desk and chair
- A PC or laptop
- Reliable network
- WiFi range extenders
- Communication accessories
- Power banks
- Alarm clocks
A Clutter-Free Desk and Chair
A cluttered desk can lead to a cluttered mind, and it’s one of the primary reasons remote workers often become distracted by objects on their desks. A clean and organized workspace can clear the mind by eliminating unnecessary visual distractions, ultimately fostering better cognitive performance.
Equally essential is a comfortable chair that supports proper posture as neglecting this can lead to slouching or severe back pain over time in remote work.
A Reliable PC or Laptop
Imagine starting your day working, only to discover that the provided system isn’t functioning as intended. This not only diminishes your enthusiasm for work but also delays project completion.
Remote workers should ensure that their devices are up-to-date and well-maintained. Additional utility equipment such as scanners, printers, USB drives, external hard drives, and a detachable mouse should be prepared in advance to enhance system efficiency and seamless functionality.
Dependable Network Connection
A strong, reliable network with sufficient bandwidth is crucial for uninterrupted remote work. An unreliable network can result in wasted time and frustration because of slow buffering and interrupted video streaming. It also impacts team communication and urgent virtual meetings, which play a significant role in shaping project outcomes.
Therefore, remote workers should carefully choose a dependable broadband service provider to ensure uninterrupted work from the comfort of their chosen location.
Wi-Fi Range Extenders
One often overlooked piece of remote work equipment is a Wi-Fi extender. These devices expand wireless network coverage by retransmitting signals, providing cost-effective and reliable solutions that are compatible with most routers.
Remote employees who are working in locations far from WiFi access points can use Wi-Fi range extenders to eliminate frequent internet range interruptions and achieve a smooth workflow.
Communication Accessories
As a remote worker, communication accessories are vital for seamless connectivity with the team. Equipment, such as headphones and webcams enhance your virtual presence and bring you closer to your collaborators.
Investing in high-quality communication accessories for remote work can also enhance the remote working experience and keep remote workers connected with colleagues.
Power Banks
Imagine being fully charged and ready to deliver your best work. But suddenly the power outage disrupts your plans for the day. In crises like these, power banks can be your lifeline, especially for remote workers facing urgent project deadlines.
Power Banks are portable and reliable, and ensure you have a consistent power supply until regular power is restored. Remote workers should select a power bank with the most compatible design, model, and desired charging speed to ensure uninterrupted work.
Best Practices for Remote Workers to Maximize Productivity
In addition to ensuring they have the necessary equipment for remote work, workers should also maintain proper etiquette and follow the practices listed below to enhance productivity.
Create a Dedicated Space
The biggest challenge when working from home is the lack of a conducive environment that fosters optimal performance. Therefore, remote workers should set up a designated area with minimal distractions to ensure uninterrupted focus and peak performance.
Develop and Maintain a Routine
Oftentimes, remote workers struggle to maintain a stringent routine that builds habits of adequate and determined performance.
Establishing a daily routine contributes to professional growth, keeping individuals aligned with their goals. Furthermore, it promotes peak performance and ensures the successful completion of daily tasks.
Invest in the Right Resources and Tools
Investing in premium subscriptions to smart remote work tools streamlines work and minimizes hassles. For example, communication, productivity measurement, and time management tools bridge the gap between a remote worker’s optimal performance and a company’s objectives.
Establish Transparent Communication
Communication is a crucial key to understanding a company’s requirements. Staying updated with the latest communication tools, such as Zoom, ProofHub, Google Drive, Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Zapier, facilitates efficient communication among team members and keeps all stakeholders informed about recent changes and modifications in schedules, documents, or files.
Key Takeaways
- Develop a remote work routine and adhere to it
- Invest in utilities, such as communication tools, equipment, and network subscriptions
- Meditate before you start working as it boosts productivity
- Focus on a relaxed sitting position
- Keep surroundings clean and organized
- Maintain a close reach to required resources and tools
- Be active during work hours
Conclusion
Although adopted as an emergency mode of working, remote work is selling like hot donuts. According to a study by McKinsey, 87% of 25,000 respondents expressed interest in remote work flexibility. While it offers numerous benefits, such as work-life balance, more family time, improved social life, no commute, reduced transportation costs, high productivity, and increased flexibility, it still requires excellence and a strong commitment to professional goals.
Therefore, ensure there are no hindrances to remote work by verifying the availability of essential resources. Investing in these resources can yield long-term productivity results and greater job satisfaction.