Employee Well-Being: Sustainability of Working Remotely
Sustainability of Working Remotely
The pandemic disrupted our traditional ways of working and pushed us into working very differently overnight. While some essential employees continued to work onsite, many needed to adapt quickly to remote work. For those of us not used to working remotely, we had to find or create a space to work. Not to mention finding equipment to use while learning new technology and new ways to connect with our colleagues, partners and clients. On top of this, some of us were tasked with juggling parenting, caregiving, social distancing, a health crisis, and so much more!
Although we’ve come a long way in a short period, there’s still room for improvement when it comes to making remote work a healthy, sustainable option. It may require extra effort, discipline, and creativity, but it’s important to practice personal and team strategies that help us remain productive and healthy for the long-term.
physical and mental workspace
One-quarter of Canadian office workers who previously had never worked from home still do not feel properly set up to do work effectively. If you can relate, consider these tips:
- Take some time to revisit and adjust your set-up as required
- Consider changes to your ergonomic needs. This video provides some helpful tips.
- If you’re still uncomfortable with your remote workstation, consider retrieving supplies or equipment from your office workstation, following the recommended guidelines.
- Check with your supervisor about purchasing equipment or supplies you may need for working from home and refer to the information about reimbursements for these items.
- Work in a space with natural light when possible; natural light can impact physical and mental well-being.
- Make time for self-care – remember that practicing self-care isn’t selfish!
- Take your lunch break and several breaks throughout the day. Participating in activities like yoga, physical activity, or our upcoming ‘Crafternoon’ are important to your well-being.
technology
Technology issues are a barrier to productivity for many Canadian employees. The technology resources at McMaster are plentiful, and these tips may help point you in the right direction:
- Learn how to avoid Zoom fatigue while working from home.
- Use LinkedIn Learning video tutorials to help you build confidence and skill.
- Try Microsoft Office Lens when you need to scan something on the go.
- Tap into the IT continuity tools available through UTS.
- Keep cyber security in mind to help keep information secure at McMaster.
- Leverage the training and events available through our technology partners.
connecting and collaborating
More than half of Canadian office workers feel slightly disconnected and one-third are less productive as they work from home during COVID-19. Here are some tips for individuals and teams on staying connected while working remotely:
- Use video chat when possible. Seeing each other on video shows body language and lessens feelings of isolation. Instant messaging is great for quick questions but for team meetings or complicated discussions, opt for a call or video chat.
- Use status updates and calendar blocks to set aside time to focus and increase productivity. Be sure to respect the time that others have on hold too.
- Stay connected with your team and colleagues through virtual huddles, coffee breaks, collaborative work, or a walking meeting when you can.
- Explore new technology with your team to enhance your collaboration.
- Build in moments of human connection to share a bit about our day, or discuss ideas, especially while we are still adjusting to a new way of working.
- Be empathetic, supportive and appreciative of all the struggles colleagues may be having now. It’s easy to feel isolated and detached when you are working remotely, making it even more important to take the initiative to stay connected.
- At the end of the day, take stock of what you’ve accomplished and what you need to do on your next workday.
- Build social connection with your team to support engagement and well-being.
Sources: https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/survey-reveals-canadian-employees-need-more-balance-and-better-technology-to-be-productive-working-from-home-during-covid-19-895206753.html and http://angusreid.org/coronavirus-work-from-home/
COVID-19, Employee Well-being, The Way We Work, Things to Know, Uncategorized