More folks are working outside of a conventional office than ever before, with telecommuting rising in popularity due to lower costs to the employer. New telecommuters are discovering what home workers have enjoyed all along — freedom from the daily commute is a real attitude adjuster. While some home workers require specific equipment that mandates only working at home, others are able to work just about anywhere.
Whether working remotely is productive or not depends on the work environment at a given location. Here are some basic tips for building a good virtual cubicle no matter where you work. Many are simply common sense, but all are tried and true methods I’ve used for years to work anywhere.
Choose your venue wisely
Cubicle farms are not the most comfortable place to work, but compared to some venues they can be downright comfortable. That’s why it is important to choose your remote work spot wisely. Coffee shops are popular work venues, but they can often be a mixed bag when it comes to providing a proper work environment. Many shops are as noisy as can be, so preparing for that possibility is a must.
In large cities there are alternative work spots that few use, making them great remote offices occasionally. I find neighborhood libraries make for great quiet work spots that are comfortable for a few hours. It is imperative you work quietly, but you get lots of quiet in return. I often listen to music with headphones to keep my noise down.
Many museums have comfortable places to work reserved for supporters, and for a reasonable annual contribution they’ll let you set up whenever you want to get some work done. They often provide nice tables and chairs for patrons who like to come in and soak up the unique environment that can only be found in museums. This has the added advantage of providing great breaks from work sessions, spent checking out the exhibits. It is a win-win situation.
Many cities have coworking establishments that allow transient workers to drop in and work for a few hours. These places have good WiFi and in addition to a proper work environment they have other like-minded individuals that can provide interaction for those who typically work in the isolated home office. Many coworking offices have different levels of membership available, from private office rentals to free table and chair provision.
