When progressive companies began to experiment with telecommuting arrangements in the 1980’s, many supervisors questioned whether productivity would decline. Jump ahead 35 years and we find that the naysayers were proven wrong. The old managerial dynamic of believing that close supervision is the way to achieve results no longer applies. Even if you work in an office, you likely also work from home. The dividing line between work and home has been forever blurred — for better or worse. These days, working from home is as ubiquitous as the cell phone.
Possible distractions exist in an office environment just as they do at home. If you find that distraction from your goals is an issue for you, you may need to change your goals. This is especially true for entrepreneurs and employees of start-ups. Start up ventures have a built-in level of excitement that isn’t present in a mundane 9-to-5 situation. You’re trying to create something with your new venture. If that doesn’t motivate you, you’re in the wrong business.
In short, working from home gives you options. How you choose to use those options will determine if you are productive in this environment.
- Use commuting savings as an opportunity to work longer
- Use video conferencing when feasible — it’ll provide you with a reason to look fresh for the camera
- Invest in technology that promotes professionalism, like a good computer and a fast internet connection
- Network. You’ll not only nurture future business opportunities, you’ll avoid feeling isolated.
Most importantly, choose work that fulfills you by ensuring that you’re doing something that you love. It’s a guaranteed way to stay productive.
Contact us to discuss your start-up venture. We specialize in “connecting the right people at the right time.”
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