This article was originally published by NPR on 12 March 2020.
NPR’s Life Kit is a special series where Meghan Keane gathers helpful insights from experts to helping people navigate “through tricky life situations.” In this episode, she talks with Yuki Noguchi, an NPR correspondent who specializes in anything that affects how and why we work.
Below are some top-line take aways from the conversation between Keane and Noguchi on how to work from home.
- Make sure you’ve got the technology to enable you to work from home. This means grab your computer, mouse, chargers, keyboard…whatever will help you stay productive. And, of course, make sure you’ve got a reliable internet connection.
- Set expectations with your boss and colleagues. Think about how you want to communicate – email, Slack, Zoom, etc. – and when you’ll be available. Communication is key.
- Embrace video chats as a way to stave off loneliness. You’re not alone, so set up video meetings with your colleagues and your friends.
- Accept the role as home schooler. It’s ok. Most employers know that this is the new (hopefully temporary) reality, and will be flexible with workers with kids during this time of crisis.
- Know your audience. Video, email and phone chats are much different than in-person engagements, so tune into cues for how your colleagues are feeling. Be smart and empathetic.
These are just a snippet of the conversation. Listen to the full discussion below.
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