Managing a remote team during a pandemic is challenging, especially for startups and unstructured businesses. However, the right hacks and mindset can keep the team productive.
These hacks apply to both organized teams and a bunch of freelancers working on a project. It can work for anyone who wants to maximize working hours from home.
JOT THINGS DOWN
Having a to-do list is not cliché as some may think. It helps you organize your activities in an orderly manner. It also allows you to think through the list and decide what comes first. This way, you’d be able to allocate time to your task and keep distractions at bay while working. A larger team will have to create a live sheet and set timelines
MOTIVATION FIRST
You must have a motive to be able to attain productivity. Make a to-do list of the three most and three less important things you aim to achieve daily. Setting goals will motivate you to finish in time. When you are done with what is important, you can focus on doing the less important things on your list. The Eisenhower Principle can help you differentiate between important and less important things.
GET STARTED ALREADY
Sometimes we talk all day about our plans without executing them. My secret is to start immediately with whatever I have. Starting makes it easier to continue, no matter how long it takes. It is encouraging to know that you are closer to completion than not starting at all. So, the best way to defeat procrastination and remain productive is to start.
ONE TASK PER TIME
Take one task and focus on it per time. Breakdown the project into subprojects and allocate to team members. Productive work is not how fast but how well you execute. Doing one thing and producing a result is far better than multi-tasking and getting nothing finished. If need be, get a timer so that you can finish on time.
BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT
The practice of voluntary breathing is one of the most reliable exercises for stress management. Take a long breathe, hold it and count to three. Then, breathe out through pursed lips as though you were whistling. This exercise will help relax the muscles in your face, jaw, shoulders, and stomach at the same time. You can also take a stroll and breathe whenever you feel confused and stressed out with work.
TURN IT DOWN
Turn up for what? Lol.
Turn down the noise and any form of distraction during work hours. I’d advise that you silence, turn off notifications/devices, and stay off social media. This hack requires discipline and self-control. There are several apps you can download, including App Blocker, Stay Focused App, Focus Booster, Anti-Social, etc. With the help of either of these technologies, it is easier to achieve productive work from home.
COMMUNICATE FREQUENTLY
Communication will help all team members to report progress and stay accountable for assigned tasks. Make sure that everyone on the team is clear on expectations and make each task time-bound.
Finally, you have to decide what works best for your team. Find out when your creative juices flow and discover your productivity hack. Remember that you are unique in your way. Search deep within to understand what works best. My best productivity hack is to jot things down. What is yours?