Working From Home? 10 Mistakes To Avoid

Never Ever Work From Bed

The first mistake may seem obvious, but it still needs to be said.  Your bed may be your favorite spot in your home, but it cannot be the location of your home office.  Laying in bed while working will encourage you to fall asleep while working which is obviously a big no no!

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Get Out of Your PJs

Make sure that everyday you're getting up and getting dressed for work, just as you would if you were going into an office.  No, you don't need to wear your best suits everyday.  It does mean however, that lounging around in your pajamas all day is not acceptable.  

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Working All Day and All Night

It's easy for us workaholics to wake up to and fall asleep with our computers.  You still deserve breaks! In fact, your mind needs them to function properly while you are working. Set a schedule for your work day. Include a start time, an ending time, and a break in this schedule. 

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Taking Too Many Breaks

When no ones watching, it's easy to think it wont hurt to treat yourself to a short nap, or a quick phone call to a friend. Even if you end up working later to make up for these breaks, its still a bad idea.  This can create the feeling that the work never ends and have you up all night doing things you could've had finished earlier. 

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Multitasking

When working at home, it can be very tempting to completely load yourself up with too many tasks at once.  While working in your kitchen office, you may feel the need to wash the dishes and throw in a load of laundry, all while listening to talk radio.  Minimize your distractions, even if they seem like productive and beneficial ones.

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Poor Demeanor and Etiquette

It may seem ludicrous, but experts say things like your body posture and facial expressions matter even when seated in front of a computer screen. Demeanor and personal etiquette affect your tone in e-mails and over the phone. So make sure your sitting up straight and smiling.

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Forgetting They Can See You On a Video Chat

When using videoconferencing, you must remember that they can see everything.  Survey your surroundings to make sure that you're making the best impression with everything the camera is capturing. A backdrop filled with mess and clutter, or other people, can be distracting and hurt your professionalism.

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Working Around Too Much Noise

A quiet work environment is essential for your productivity and focus.  Even if you are a pro at shutting out all noises and concentrating, the sounds can be distracting to others.  It is important to remember, all sounds come through telephone lines and video conferences. 

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Don't Become a Hermit!

Spending your work day at home doesn't mean you should remain in your house all the time. Make a strong effort to get out of your home and get involved in social activities.  Social interaction is important no matter what line of work you're in. 

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Choose Your Work Space Wisely

All in all, where you set-up your work space is extremely important. Choose a room that doesn't commonly serve as a gathering space.  Don't set yourself up in the kitchen if you're prone to snacking or in front of a TV if you can't help but turn it on. A private room with a door is ideal, but learn to work with the space that you have. 

Photo Credit: Emily A. Clark