Step-by-Step Tips for Transitioning to Remote Work

Introduction

If you’re out of work due to the pandemic, you may be considering taking on a remote position to make ends meet or even as a permanent career change. Remote work can be a great way to earn a paycheck while retaining the flexibility you need to find a new job or take care of a family. So if you’re ready to get started, here are some tips to keep in mind.

You Could Be Your Own Boss

If you’re looking for a remote employer, you may want to start by looking at yourself. That’s because it can be so simple to start your own business, especially when you use the latest virtual tools to fill out paperwork and create your business plan. In terms of the first step, you can form a business entity in minutes, but you will need to pay the applicable filing fees and meet minimum requirements for your state. Also, be sure to complete a search beforehand to ensure your business name isn’t already being used.

Wondering what sort of remote business to start? Honestly, the possibilities are endless, so that can depend on your individual skills, experience, and preferences. If you have a talent for creating art or jewelry, you could open your very own Etsy shop. You can also make a pretty decent income providing online services, including data management. As explained in this blog post from Technology Crowds, most businesses can benefit from data management help.

Or You Can Work for a Company

Being your own boss can provide flexibility and freedom, but it isn’t for everyone. And that’s totally okay! Because you can still find remote work with already-established businesses that can provide some peace of mind and security. In fact, more businesses than ever before are looking to permanently fill their ranks with remote workers. So, you shouldn’t have too many issues scoring a position if you know where to look.

If you have a good idea of which businesses are hiring remote workers, you could start by checking out their websites for current openings and application information. Popular companies like Rosetta Stone and Kaplan are currently looking for remote employees, but these positions tend to only offer part-time hours. That sort of flexible schedule can come in handy if you are still looking for full-time work. But what if you need more income to keep yourself afloat?

When you need full-time work, you can use remote job search sites like FlexJobs to find the right job for you. These sites allow you to filter job postings by the number of hours required, career field, and other useful details. You can even find remote freelance positions using these job boards, which can be helpful for supplementing your income at any time.

But You Need Structure to Stay Productive

Remote work can be a safe and flexible way to earn income if you have lost a job due to the pandemic. Even so, it’s not unusual for people to feel a bit stressed about transitioning from a more traditional role to a remote work environment. Some of the most common challenges facing new remote workers include dealing with everyday distractions, feeling disconnected from other people, and balancing work and home life when they are working from home.

If you want to overcome these stressors and maximize your productivity, creating consistent routines can be extremely effective. Write out a schedule that includes work hours, breaks, and a realistic cut-off time and stick to it. You may also want to go over your schedule with other folks in your home so that they are aware of your “do not disturb” hours. Taking these measures will help keep you focused on your remote work assignments and help you keep your new job.

With no clear end in sight for the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work is likely here to stay. So you’re smart for making the transition into a remote position now. Hopefully, the tips above will help you find the perfect remote job and be successful in that new role.

Need tech tips? Then you need to read through the maximize your productivity on Technology Crowds.