Working from home used to feel like something out of reach for a lot of employees, however in the midst of the pandemic, many of us now find ourselves settling into our couches, laptops in tow with our home-brewed coffees. Some people may find that they love this new work-from-home lifestyle and some may be craving the water cooler talk that an office environment provides.

Whatever the case, full or part time remote work, here are some tips that can help you be successful:

• Provide regular status updates. Employees working from home may be wondering about updates on a daily basis. By providing regular email and/or reoccurring update meetings workplace changes, policy updates, etc. can offer some relief of the unknown.
• Schedule video calls. Probably the biggest adjustment to working from home is not seeing your co-workers every day. Be sure to schedule video calls on a regular basis to feel more connected to those on your team.
• Lead by example with a great workspace. Video calls open up your home to those in your meeting. Be sure to have a neat background and working space. Provide ergonomic tips to employees on how to set up a comfortable working from home space.
• Avoid micromanaging. Understanding that everyone is balancing different experiences and trusting employees are completely their work creates a more supportive and encouraging environment. Schedule check ins as necessary, not as simply a check-box item to micromanage employees from afar.
• Have fun! Remember that you colleagues are used to having fun while at work – whether it be walking to get a morning coffee or taking a lunch break with friends. Remote meetings tend to focus more on the agenda at hand, schedule time for your employees to talk story or do a fun virtual event together! Here at Blue Zones Project - Hawaii, we took a virtual cooking class together to learn to make authentic Italian pasta.
  
  

• Recognize work life balance. One of the more unique aspects of working from home is the flexibility it provides. Have open dialogue with colleagues about what schedule works best for them. This creates a trusting environment and reduces stress but feeling like you have to be stuck to your computer from 8am- 5pm.
• Get feedback. Set time aside to check in with employees either by one on one meetings or through anonymous surveys. Giving people a platform to talk honestly about their experiences gives your employer the opportunity to change course and make things easier!