Five Ways To Set Yourself Up for Success for Your First Remote Job

Tip #1: Create a Routine
When you are working remotely, you have the freedom to work from wherever you want to, away from distractions that you might experience in an office. However, establishing a structured remote environment will help you stay productive. Create a routine by establishing your regular working hours and scheduling times to take a break. Make sure to communicate your hours clearly to your supervisor and colleagues.

Tip #2: Keep Up Healthy Communication
Finding your team’s preferred communication methods ensures that everyone is on the same page. While you may be used to stopping by someone’s desk to ask a quick question when working at an office, it is important to establish preferred communication methods in a remote work environment. Scheduling dedicated team check-in times will help create healthy communication with your colleagues and supervisor. 

Tip #3: Separate Work from Personal
Ensuring your workspace and personal space are separated at home will help you know when to step away from work and balance it with home life. Choose a place that will help you focus and avoid distractions. Make sure that it has all of the tools and equipment you need. Keep your space organized and clutter-free to have a more productive day. 

Tip #4: Use a To-do List
Making a list of tasks to complete by the end of each day will help you avoid distractions. Create the list every morning and continue to reference it throughout the day, checking tasks off as you go. At the end of the day, evaluate your progress and note what might need to move to the next day. This will help you stay efficient and on track.

Tip #5: Assess and Secure Your Tech
Make sure that you have the physical tech you need — a computer, good internet connection, keyboard and mouse, desk, comfortable chair — as well as video conferencing and project management tools to perform your job successfully. Many companies use Zoom and Slack, while others are on Teams or Google Meet. After learning what is available at your company, make sure you are well trained and prepared to use these tools every day. SkillUp has current employer partners offering remote work opportunities with in-demand industries, specifically SunRun! Explore other jobs at https://www.skillup.org/earn-and-learn to learn more.

We are proud to partner with Sunrun and several other national employers to offer remote-based roles. Learn more!