The 5 D's Of Working Remotely

Covid-19: Working Remotely The Bridge To The Future

While COVID-19 has created many problems, it has also created many opportunities.

One of the most critical opportunities is the ability to work remotely, from home, or just about anywhere, anytime. With the onslaught of COVID-19, working remotely has become our bridge to the future.

Our ability to work this way has made it possible for thousands of businesses to keep functioning and survive throughout this challenging time by enabling employees to continue working and allowing communication to continue globally. No longer is remote work just for freelancers or part-time workers. Working remotely has finally gone mainstream. The future is here.

As with any transition, there are adjustments to be made and challenges to overcome. To make things work as effectively as possible, I have put together a list of five key things to remember to help you make a seamless transition from working in a typical office to working remotely from home or anyplace else.

THE 5 D's OF WORKING REMOTELY:

1. DISCOVERY

Be open to all the opportunities a new way of working provides.

Clarify expectations:

Determine your goals. What do you want and need to accomplish? Determine what your manager or team also needs and expects from you. Set clear expectations. Determine a plan and timeline for getting work done. Figure out how many hours it will take you to achieve the desired outcome. What results is your team or manager expecting from you?

Determine what tools you need to succeed:

Ask yourself, what tools do I need to do my job correctly?

Re-configure your work environment to work as efficiently as you can in your office. Do you have the right computer equipment and software? Is your internet set up at the right speed? Are you set up correctly for ZOOM, or other group chats you need to participate in? Make sure you have all the tools you need to work as effectively and efficiently as possible.                                                      

2. DISCIPLINE

Self-discipline is critical. Offices provide structure. There is a synergy that is created from teamwork, collaboration, socializing, etc. People are carried by the energy of those around them. This usually pushes even the weakest performers to work at a specific, acceptable level. At home, or other location, there is no imposed structure. You are in charge-you are the CEO of your own business. You must develop your structure. Create an environment free of distractions to maintain your focus. Work the same hours you usually would. Follow a set schedule and carve out a new routine. Dedicate time to do your work, take care of your mind, your health, your spirituality, and some socialization. Since you won't be running into people daily, it's essential to create your own 'water cooler'. Make time to call and chat with colleagues to catch up and keep up. Set a time to check in with your friends, too, so you don't begin to feel too isolated. All of these things should be part of your daily schedule.

3. DIALOG

Communication is more crucial than ever. You should be in constant communication with your team, your manager, and your accountability partner. This is critical so that you do not become disconnected or begin to feel excluded. It's also crucial to facilitate doing your job and to convey results. Even over-communication is helpful when working remotely. Make sure you have the proper chat tools, such as ZOOM, Skype, Facetime, Group Chat, LA Gram, Group Me, etc., set up so you can communicate with your team whenever necessary.

4. DELIVERY

Getting results and getting things done is critical. Developing a timeline will help you with meeting deadlines, completing projects, and bringing ideas to fruition.

Delivering results is still the bottom line.  

5. DEBRIEF

Debriefing elevates your game. Everyone should debrief weekly with their team, their manager, and their accountability partner. This is where you evaluate what worked and what didn't and why. It's where you ask, "How can I improve?" It's how you figure out what to do next and how to do it best.

Here is your FREE GIFT:  The 5 D's of Working From Home.pdf

Farshad Asl www.farshadasl.com