When you think of working from home you might envision sipping from a giant cup of coffee as you sink into your sofa with your laptop, ready to take on the world. Depending on how much work you intend to do remotely and the basic requirements needed to do your job, this image might ring true. However, if you are going to be working from home full-time there are three things to consider when getting ready to set-up your new workspace.
1. Technology Requirements:
You will need a laptop and/or a desktop with a monitor capable of running all the software that is required for you to do your job. Along with that important equipment, you will need reliable high-speed internet access to do video-conferencing, stay on top of communications, do research, collaborate online and basically complete all sorts of other important web-related tasks that modern-day work often requires. Having a reliable back-up method can save you the stress that would come with losing any work. Depending on your needs you might want to use cloud based back-up services, an in-house external drive, a personal server, or a combination of methods. Investing in a surge protector to keep your computer and other equipment safe from power supply problems can also save you from losing work or having your equipment damaged.
2. Hardcopy Requirements:
If you are not part of a paperless operation, a multipurpose printer that can scan, make copies, and fax is useful, as well as a filing cabinet to store all your paper documents in. Even if you are mostly paperless, having a small filing cabinet can come in handy for organizing things like tax, investment, pension, and any other personal and/or work papers that all adults tend to accumulate. It might also be prudent to have a paper shredder if you anticipate the need to destroy confidential information on a regular basis.
3. Space Requirements:
Not only will you have to think about where to put your technology and hardcopy related equipment, you will want to have a quiet place to work that has good lighting. For some people this might mean a complete office set-up with a desk and chair. Working from your bed or couch is an option, but doing so everyday may lead to the aches and pains that come along with poor posture, so consider investing in an ergonomically friendly place to work. Even if you do not have an office space, you still might need somewhere to store your supplies such as pens, notepads, ink, business cards, etc.
By taking the time to consider these three key components of a home workspace, you will be able to assess if working from home full-time is a feasible option for you. If your requirements outsize your space, you might want to consider working from a shared office space or only working from home part of the time. Whatever space you choose to do your work from we hope you enjoy using the online space here at Sagegroupy, where you can find clients and browse our job board if you are a freelancer, or find freelancers and post to our job board if you are looking to hire. Sign up with Sagegroupy today, it’s always free!
Authour: S.Suzuyama
