In 2021, Accenture conducted a survey in which 83% of employees said they preferred a hybrid working paradigm in which they worked remotely at least 25% of the time. However, some people may find it challenging to manage this kind of work arrangement.
For this reason, we’ve compiled a list of our best productivity advice for hybrid workers. In this post, you will discover how to maximize your hybrid work environment by creating better habits that will keep you focused and organized wherever you work. So continue reading if you’re trying to find ways to increase your productivity as a hybrid worker!
Your productivity is greatly influenced by your office, so it’s critical to establish an area that keeps you comfortable and engaged. The comfort of both of your workspaces should be considered when working in a hybrid environment. Don’t worry, though; if you take the time to set everything up beforehand, it shouldn’t require a lot of additional work on your behalf.
Make every effort to imitate your physical workplace setting, if at all possible. In this manner, you can effortlessly transition between the two without constantly changing your perspective.
Here are some pointers for making both the workplace and your home more productive.
1. Invest in a good quality chair
It’s hard to overstate the importance of having a comfortable chair in both office and home settings. Ergonomic chairs can help reduce back pain, fatigue, and other physical issues.
2. Adjust your desks so they are at the right height
Doing so ensures that your arms are at a comfortable angle for typing. If you can’t adjust your desk, try using a laptop riser to give yourself the best possible posture.
3. Add some plants or other elements that bring you joy to your workspaces
Adding things like plants, artwork, or even a scented candle can make your workspace more inviting and help keep you motivated throughout the day. Try to create a similar feel between your workspaces that makes it easier for you to be productive in both locations. Bringing a touch of home to your office and a touch of the office home can work wonders here.
4. Make sure that the environment is comfortable but not too quiet
By adding a white noise machine or playing relaxing music, you can create a more calming atmosphere. While in the office, you can do this as well — just pop on a pair of headphones so as to not distract your coworkers.
5. Get noise-canceling headphones
Related to the above, noise-canceling headphones can help you stay focused when there is noise around you, especially when faced with distractions at home. Family, roommates, and even just typical house sounds can be distracting when you’re trying to get work done. But don’t underestimate their value in the office, too.
Having a routine can help you stay organized and productive in a hybrid work environment. Try to establish a routine that works both when you’re working in the office and at home. Here are some tips to help you get started.
6. Set specific times to start and end your workday
This will help keep you on track and make it easier to transition between home and office. Set an alarm for when it’s time to start and end work, as well as for when you need to take a break.
7. Create a morning routine
Setting up a consistent morning routine for yourself will help you stay focused and energized throughout the day. This can include things like having breakfast, getting dressed in work clothes, or doing some form of exercise. Even a morning meditation can be an excellent way to create consistency between your two work environments.
8. Make a to-do list
Creating a to-do list is an effective way of planning your day and keeping your productivity levels consistent. This can be done either at the beginning or end of the day, depending on your preference.
9. Take regular breaks throughout the day
Making sure you take breaks is important for staying productive. This can be anything from a short walk outside to getting a snack or making yourself a cup of coffee. Taking regular breaks will help you stay focused and energized.
10. Use technology to your advantage
Technology can be a great ally in a hybrid work environment. There are tools such as time-tracking apps and project management software that can help you stay organized and productive.
Set boundaries around your workday
When you’re working in a hybrid environment, it can be difficult to create boundaries between work and home life. To help with this, set boundaries around your workday, such as no emails or calls after a certain time. Also, try to create a dedicated workspace at home that’s just for work, and make sure to leave it once your day is done. Likewise, let both your colleagues and your family know your schedule so everybody’s on the same page.
Use a planner or a productivity app
Bouncing back and forth between home and the office can lead to disorganization. That’s why it’s essential to use a planner or a productivity app to help keep you organized and on task. This will help you stay focused and productive throughout the day.
Read Also: The Challenges of Hybrid Work and How to Overcome Them
Communication can be challenging in a hybrid work environment, but there are tools and strategies that can help. Here are a few of our favorites.
11. Use video conferencing tools
Video conferencing tools, such as Skype and Zoom, can help create a sense of community even when you’re not in the same room. They can also be used to facilitate team discussions and brainstorming sessions, as well as virtual hangouts or coffee breaks. Just be sure to be clear and concise in your messages, and avoid overloading your colleagues with too much information at once.
12. Make an effort to build personal relationships with your colleagues
It’s important to make an effort to build personal relationships with your colleagues when you’re working in a hybrid environment. Reach out to your colleagues and ask how they’re doing, or take the time to get to know them a little better. These connections will help you create a stronger team bond and make it easier to stay connected even when you’re not in the office.
13. Join virtual events
Virtual events such as webinars, online seminars, and conferences are great ways to stay connected with your colleagues and learn new things. They can also be a fun way to break up the monotony of working from home.
Take Breaks
We touched on this subject already above when discussing how to build a routine, but it’s so important it warrants its own section. Taking regular breaks is essential for maintaining productivity and avoiding burnout and here are some ways to incorporate them more effectively.
14. Use the Pomodoro technique
The Pomodoro technique is a popular productivity tool that’s designed to help you stay focused. It works by breaking up your day into 25-minute chunks of uninterrupted work with 5-minute breaks in between. This can help you stay focused and motivated while avoiding burnout and distractions. You can also adjust the length of each work session to best suit your needs.
15. Take a walk outside
Taking a short walk outside can be a great way to recharge and refocus. If the weather permits, try to get some fresh air once or twice a day. This can help you clear your head and come back to work feeling refreshed and energized. Getting outside on your lunch — whether you’re at the office or working from home — is also a great way to break up your day and put some distance between work and home life.
16. Use a mindfulness app
Mindfulness apps are great tools for helping you stay focused and reduce stress. Taking a few minutes to connect with yourself can be incredibly beneficial, and apps like Headspace and Calm can help you get into the habit of doing that. Try to incorporate a few minutes of mindful practice into your day, and see how it can help you stay focused and productive.
Stay Organized
Staying organized can be challenging in a hybrid work environment, but there are tools and strategies that can help.
17. Create a filing system for your digital documents and emails
Creating a filing system for your digital documents and emails can help you stay organized and on top of things. Try to use consistent naming conventions so you can easily find what you need. You could also use a digital filing system, such as Dropbox or Google Drive, to store and organize your files.
18. Use productivity tools
There are lots of great productivity tools out there that can help you stay organized and on top of your workload. Tools such as Trello, Asana, and Evernote can help you manage your tasks and keep track of progress. or if you need a bit more structure try using Kanban boards or Gantt charts.
19. Set aside time to organize your surroundings
Whether you’re in the office or working from home, spending a few minutes to organize your surroundings can go a long way. Clear off your desk, organize the files on your computer, and tidy up any other areas you’re using to work. This will help you stay focused and make it easier to find what you need when you need it.
Prioritize Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is crucial for maintaining productivity and well-being in a hybrid work environment.
20. Make time for regular exercise or physical activity
Even if it’s just a short walk or a yoga session, making time for regular physical activity can help you stay energized, reduce stress and boost your mood. Exercise can also improve focus, creativity, and productivity.
21. Don’t forget to disconnect from work
It’s easy to get caught up in work, especially when there’s no clear boundary between home and office. It’s important to remember to disconnect from work when you’re off the clock. Also, make sure you give yourself enough time to relax and unwind in the evenings and on weekends. Hustle culture is pervasive, but that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve time for yourself.
22. Start a journal
Journaling can be a great way to track progress and clear your head. It can help you gain clarity, set goals, and stay on top of things. Try to set aside a few minutes each day to journal, and don’t forget to jot down any ideas or insights that come up. Doing so can help you to clear your head and solidify your goals and perspectives around your work tasks.
23. Pursue hobbies outside of work
Lastly, don’t forget to make time for hobbies and activities that are outside of work. Having a life outside of work is important for reducing stress and maintaining a work-life balance. Doing things that you enjoy can help you stay energized and motivated. So, pursue your passions, learn something new, or reconnect with old hobbies that make you happy.
How to Stay Motivated in a Hybrid Work Environment?
Set clear goals
One of the best ways to stay motivated in a hybrid work environment is to set clear and realistic goals for yourself and your team. Goals help you focus on what matters, track your progress, and celebrate your achievements. They also help you align your work with the expectations and priorities of your organization. To set effective goals, use the SMART framework: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Write down your goals and review them regularly to stay on track.
Create a routine
Another way to stay motivated in a hybrid work environment is to create a routine that works for you and your situation. A routine helps you establish a sense of structure, discipline, and consistency in your work. It also helps you manage your time, energy, and resources effectively. To create a routine, consider the following factors: your work hours, your tasks and deadlines, your breaks and meals, your communication and collaboration tools, and your personal and professional boundaries. Experiment with different routines and find the one that suits you best.
Seek feedback
A third way to stay motivated in a hybrid work environment is to seek feedback from your manager, colleagues, and clients. Feedback helps you improve your performance, learn from your mistakes, and identify your strengths and areas for development. It also helps you feel valued, recognized, and supported in your work. To seek feedback, ask for it regularly and proactively, be open and receptive to it, and act on it accordingly. You can also give feedback to others and share your appreciation and recognition.
Connect with others
A fourth way to stay motivated in a hybrid work environment is to connect with others who share your goals, challenges, and interests. Connecting with others helps you build trust, rapport, and collaboration in your team. It also helps you reduce stress, isolation, and burnout in your work. To connect with others, use various communication and collaboration tools, such as video calls, chats, emails, and project management platforms. You can also join online communities, networks, and groups related to your field or industry.
Reward yourself
A fifth way to stay motivated in a hybrid work environment is to reward yourself for your efforts, achievements, and milestones. Rewarding yourself helps you boost your morale, confidence, and satisfaction in your work. It also helps you reinforce positive behaviors and habits that contribute to your success. To reward yourself, choose something that is meaningful, enjoyable, and appropriate for you, such as a treat, a hobby, a compliment, or a break. You can also reward yourself with others and celebrate together.
