The digital era, driven by technological advancements, has broken conventions like cubicles and 9 to 5 shifts. A 2022 survey found that hybrid work was expected to rise by 55% by the end of the year. Only two in ten employees were working on-site or expecting to be on-site in the future.
An increasing number of people now have the option of working remotely, from their home or any other location. Virtual collaboration and communication has allowed them to seamlessly execute their tasks from the comfort of their homes.
This dynamic work approach prioritizes results over attendance and physical presence. You can work from the office, home, on a flight, or from the garage while your car gets fixed! As long as you keep clients happy and deliver results, your boss will grant you all the flexibility you want!
As organizations increasingly embrace this trend, remote work locations become integral to modern work culture, offering a balance between professional commitments and personal lifestyle choices. Remote work locations offer flexibility, allowing professionals to tailor their work environments to suit their preferences while maintaining productivity.
What are the qualities of a good remote working space?
Quiet environment
The workspace should not be too noisy, otherwise you might get distracted frequently. If you can’t help but be in a noisy environment, e.g. when you have kids at home or if you are outdoors, wearing noise cancelling headphones might help.
Mak and colleagues (2012) found that noises like conversations, ringing phones, and machines had a significant negative impact on office productivity. Quiet environments, perhaps with some soft music, may enhance concentration. So go ahead and make your work hours playlist!
Comfortable seating
If you are working indoors, an ergonomically designed chair with good lumbar support is a worthwhile investment. Adjustable height is an added advantage. Wheels are great too, as long as you remember to get up and exercise once in a while!
If you are working outdoors, you may have little control over furniture and seating. It is important to take frequent breaks to stretch and walk, to avoid long term aches and pains resulting from bad posture.
Adequate lighting
Natural light is the best source of illumination. It is healthy, energizing and helps you adjust your circadian rhythm, i.e. your sleep and waking cycle. This might be difficult for people who work night shifts. Adjustable lighting can help you maintain a consistent environment as you work through different shifts. Remember to adjust your screen lighting options to avoid eye strain.
Reliable internet
Remote work is based on virtual communication enabled by technology. A high speed internet connection is crucial to prevent disruptions during virtual meetings. Back up options like a portable Wi-Fi dongle and mobile hotspot are important for responding in emergencies.
List of remote work locations
Home office
The first thing that comes to mind after we hear ‘remote work’ is working from the comfort of your home. What could be better than having a cozy home office, with the flexibility to cook, watch TV, go for a walk, and spend time with your family whenever you get a break!
If you can’t have a home office, set aside a space for working, like a desk, table, a couch, etc. and try to stick to that area. Avoid working in your bed, in the kitchen, or any other space you use for activities other than working. By doing this, you can condition yourself to associate your bedroom with sleep, kitchen with food, etc. and prevent work from encroaching on your personal life.
Co-working spaces
You can register as a user in a local co-working center. Co-working spaces are designed to enhance productivity and motivation among professionals from various fields and organizations. They are not just shared office spaces; some go the extra mile to encourage collaborative projects and create a sense of belonging and community among the users.
Libraries
Libraries have always been the perfect space for concentration and focused work, even before the advent of technology and internet. A membership at your local library is a tried and tested solution for working on solitary, focused tasks. The quiet atmosphere provided by libraries, coupled with access to electricity and internet, is the perfect recipe for a productive day!
Cafes and bars
Casual settings, a fun and relaxed atmosphere and access to refreshments create a perfect environment for group work and brainstorming. Many cafes and bars designate quiet zones for working with wi-fi access. Sometimes, a change of surroundings is all you need to beat the Monday blues and start working!
Outdoor spaces
Parks, gardens and outdoor cafes are great for working in fresh air and natural light. Exposure to natural surroundings boosts energy and enhances motivation. Fully charged portable devices, hotspot connection and some healthy snacks are all you need to start your outdoor work session!
Community centers
Some community centers offer spaces for work, study and group events. You can can use this shared work environment to collaborate with like minded professionals and form groups for sharing work openings, conferences, project opportunities, etc.
Airport lounges
When using airport lounges for remote work, start by checking if you’re eligible through memberships or passes. Arrive early to make the most of your time, and choose a quiet spot with good amenities like Wi-Fi and charging stations.
If the lounge has dedicated workspaces or quiet rooms, utilize them for increased focus. Respect lounge etiquette, keep noise levels low, and be professional. Sit near power outlets, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and be mindful of your time to avoid missing your flight. Test the Wi-Fi connection before settling in, and make sure to have all your work essentials ready for a productive and comfortable remote work experience.
The evolving landscape of remote work provides a myriad of options for individuals seeking flexibility and productivity beyond the traditional office setting. From the comfort of home offices to the dynamic atmosphere of co-working spaces, and even the unexpected tranquility of airport lounges, each space caters to distinct preferences and work styles.
Whether surrounded by the familiar or venturing into new environments, the key lies in finding the perfect balance that aligns with individual needs. As the remote work trend continues to reshape our professional landscape, the variety of available spaces serves as a testament to the adaptability of modern work culture. In this diverse array of workspaces, individuals can carve out their ideal setting, fostering creativity, collaboration, and efficiency in the ever-expanding realm of remote work.
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