SERIES: Taking Care of YOU!

Skills Crucial for Working Remotely

Working 9-to-5 in the workplace is no longer the norm as the demand for working remotely continues to rise.  And, why not?  Working remotely is very appealing when it allows you perks like, more flexibility, independence, and the savings of time and travel- cost of daily commutes.

While your essential skills and experience practiced in the workplace are transferrable, working remotely will require additional skills crucial to your success.

Do you have the following skills to work remotely?

1.    Self-Discipline. Do you have the ability to control your impulses and actions, working independently without your supervisor being nearby reminding you to complete your tasks on time? Discipline is key to our reaching career goals and creating success for ourselves, as well as the organization that employs us. Also, it’s a desirable strength that employers and hiring managers consider to be a valuable trait. If you don’t have it yet, that’s ok. You weren’t born with it, but you can definitely learn self-discipline.

2.    Self-Motivation.  Self-motivation is in alignment with self-discipline. Since your manager is not going to be present to check on you, you do need to be self-motivated by having a routine that keeps you focused on your task(s). Avoid the urge to play with the kids, pets, watch TV (or play video games), or daydreaming. The more private and quieter your workspace the more work you will get done and you may finish more quickly, allowing you to extend your break time

3.    Problem Solving.  Do you have excellent or good problem-solving skills and are you resourceful without requiring assistance from a colleague or your manager? Keep in mind that unlike working on site, you will not necessarily have easy access to those you may have depended on previously.

4.    Time Management.  This skill goes along with self-discipline. Managers expect independent employees working remotely to be responsible for managing their time effectively and efficiently in completing scheduled projects.  When working with a team remotely it takes only one member who fails in managing their time to impede

team progress. Therefore, it is your responsibility to be prepared mentally by practicing good time management. Avoid letting your team down.

5.    Communication Methods. It is important that if you’re working remotely you are efficient using various communication ways to contact your employer and/or team members.  Whether it’s video conferencing, text messaging, chats, emails, etc., be professional. Learn and be consistent in giving prompt replies, keeping your message succinct, re-reading before sending (nothing more frustrating than to receive a message that lacks clarity and prevalent with misspelled words, from a colleague or manager). Take the time to proofread your message before sending.

6.    Digital Resources.  Anyone working remotely needs to be familiar with the necessary software and online tools to effectively accomplish their work and engage with management or team members.  If you’re uncomfortable with digital resourcing and want to be more effective remotely, then take the time to learn more about the latest tools available. Seek advice from those who are very proficient in maximizing the use of digital resources.

7.    Sensitivity to Cultural Differences. Working remotely chances are you will be interfacing with professionals with cultural differences. Be mindful, courteous, respectful, patient, and professional as you work with those in which there are language barriers, unique cultures and traditions. Make your fellow Americans proud by the way you conduct yourself during cross-cultural encounters.

8.    Compatible Team Player. You don’t have to necessarily like the people you interface with when working remotely, but you do need to ensure that you withhold any negative judgement. Focus on the business side and consistently perform in a professional manner.  In remote work, collaborating with other members of a team effectively is critical. You must do you part of the work efficiently, on time, avoiding excuses, taking accountability, and ensuring that your team members are informed appropriately and timely (e. g., no last-minute surprises!)

9.    Confidentiality. In today’s world of computer hacking and other breaches of security it is imperative that remote workers take the necessary precautions to be responsible for ensuring their pc is well protected. You must have a high-quality security system in place, protected pw, antivirus software, avoid unsecured free Wi-Fi (like the plague!), and any other protected software your employer requires. Your employer will appreciate your assurance you have your pc well protected.

10.  Self-Improvement.  Whether in the workplace or remotely it’s always to your advantage to improve your current job skills and learn new skills. Invest in the time to do so and the ROI will be worth it.

Take care of YOU by learning all the skills necessary to work remotely as well as more efficiently.

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