Working from home has over the years seen a paradigm shift from being an option to a chosen few employees to today being an alternative to many as the cost of commuting to work rises and as environmental consciousness and the willingness of employers to save on cost and retain valued employers become more important.
The great thing about making your home your place of work besides the fact that you don’t have to rush to get to work on time, is that you are able to work at your own pace, have your own schedule and most importantly, there’s no need to wear a shirt and tie all day long!
But working from home does present its own challenges too. For example, an office has all the necessary technology and supplies to help you do your duties, but your home does not.
Don’t worry, because here are some basic requirements that will set you on the road to a functional home office. They include:
◦Deciding on a budget.
◦Purchasing the necessary equipment that will help you in your work, and deciding where to set them up.
◦A computer, such as a desktop or laptop. This is a MUST HAVE!
◦A printer is a good investment. You might want to consider printers that double-up as scanners and photocopiers. You will save on money and space.
◦Setting up phone and electrical lines. You will have to make sure that you have sufficient electrical outlets to plug your computer, printer, etc.
◦Good lighting which is essential for you to work well. Purchase a small desktop lamp if you need to work into the night.
◦Is the room air-conditioned? If not, you might want to buy one. You can get an inexpensive portable air-conditioner these days which works well.
◦Designing your home office in such a way that your work time remains separate from what other family members are doing so that you do not get distracted and lose productivity. Noises coming from the television or the cooking that’s being done in the kitchen are some examples of distractions that can affect your work.
◦Using indoor plants to soften up the look of your home office. They will also help boost your general health by filtering air and increasing oxygen levels.
◦Investing in cabinets to help keep important files and documents.
Feng Shui For Your Home Office
If you are keen to make your stint working from home a success, why not try Feng Shui. According to Feng Shui practitioners, it can bring benefits to your work and lifestyle. Here are some tips you can try.
◦Have your home office as far away from the bedroom as possible. This will ensure that your work life remains separate from other activities in your private life.
◦Position your desk in such a way that your back is not facing the door. Also make sure you are not facing a wall whilst you are sitting at your desk.
◦Do not keep a lot of things in your work place. It is believed that clutter drains your energy.
It’s becoming easier to work from home
The huge advancements in technology have made it easier for people to work from home. You can converse with your colleagues or bosses over the phone and conduct meetings through the internet by using webcam technology and Skype. The conveniences of such technology are making home offices a viable option for more and more people.
Maybe it’s something you might want to consider for yourself?
Article courtesy of - http://www.propertyguru.com.sg/
