The onset of the COVID-19 virus has seen many companies transitioning to remote work methods. People and the organizations in which they work for have changed the way that they conduct their day-today business. Are employees embracing this “new normal” or are they falling short on their productivity? Many companies may also keep some form of remote work as a result of this pandemic once over.

While many companies were totally unprepared for the reality of working from home, some took the challenge head on. Many employers that were ready for this change do note that their employees were along for the ride and great work has been done, teamwork at its finest. They are utilizing technologies such as video conferencing, virtual meetings, and the list goes on.

How do we adapt?

Adapting to remote-work can be awkward, challenging and simple all at once. It does truly depend upon what resources are given to employees and how each person adjusts their daily lives. A challenge that many are facing however, is the lack of childcare. Many parents are now acting as their children’s teachers while their schools are closed. This can be distracting, especially to someone working from home. Those that have adapted well to this change, are doing so because they create new daily routines and are finding ways to effectively communicate with others.

New routines

To be successful when working from home, you must keep to a routine. This may involve waking up around the same time you would if going into the office, allowing for a few short breaks throughout the day, and carving out time in your day to get work done. Try to stick to the same routine each day. This enables a person to consistently juggle the multiple tasks they must complete each day.

Far fewer distractions

Sure, one’s bed or couch is tempting, but you can’t work successfully from either of those locations. Those that have set up a dedicated workspace in their home that is comfortable and quiet have seen their productivity soar. Many people are finding that they have fewer distractions than when in the office. These distractions can include workplace banter, others on the telephone, or even the briskness of their air conditioning. Many find that they can’t focus on their work and get the job done quickly and precisely. On the other hand, many people need these daily distractions in the workplace in order to help keep their mental health in check.

Our new normal?

Let’s face it, with this new and uncertain time, remote work is here to stay, at least for a little while. Many companies that did not offer any work from home capabilities are changing their current policies. What previously was against corporate normality, is now the norm. These companies found that it can work for their organizations. Some employers may hire new employees remotely as well as allow them to work remotely in the future.

Many companies will slowly transition back to a primarily in-person work environment, in which its employees will have to readjust once again. There will always be challenges to be faced within the workplace. Companies that are investing in their remote capabilities and make changes within their organizations will see dramatic increases in productivity as the employees will feel valued and taken care of.

Employees who are adjusting well to this change are finding the positives in this situation. They may have more freedom to control their daily schedules, they have more time to spend with family, and may produce higher levels of work as a result. Overall, these employees will find it much easier to adjust to a remote work style.