The world of work is constantly changing and evolving, and remote work is more common than ever. As a recent graduate, you may start a new job via telework. As an intern, you may be asked to work remotely. The Career Development Center has created the following tips to help you gather the tools and resources needed to transition from student to professional.
Click through each of the below steps to learn how you can prepare for the transition.
Workspace
Have you determined a dedicated space from which you will work remotely? Is it free from distractions? When you join a virtual call, will your background seem neat and professional? Do you have the appropriate equipment (required technology and software, a comfortable chair, a flat and clean work surface, etc.) to ensure quality work?
Teleconferencing software
Which platforms does your new employer use most often for virtual meetings? Are you familiar with how to access and create these meetings? Do you feel comfortable troubleshooting issues with your webcam or audio? Before signing into a virtual meeting, don’t forget to consider what is visible in the background!
Chair
What type of chair will you be using? Is this comfortable for you for stretches of time?
Lighting
Do you have adequate lighting to prevent eye strain?
Connectivity
Do you have a reliable internet connection?
Zoom and webcam
Are you familiar with how Zoom and your webcam work? Embrace your webcam. Consider what is behind you when you Zoom into meetings.
Supplies and storage
Do you have the necessary supplies (pens, writing pads, etc.) to be productive? When your day is over, where will you store your work to prevent it from cluttering your living space and being easily accessible to others? Consult with your employer about proper procedures to secure sensitive or proprietary information.
Personalizing
How can you personalize your workspace to make it more comfortable and enjoyable during work hours? Can you add pictures or flowers to your workspace?
Schedule
Are you clear on your work schedule? Do you need to communicate your schedule to others, such as in your email signature? You are not expected to work outside of your agreed-upon schedule.
Dress for work
All studies indicate that when we “dress for work” when we work from home, we are more productive. Consider ditching the sweatpants and fuzzy slippers.
Structure
Structure your day. If possible, consider waking up at the same time every day and tackling specific tasks at the same time each day.
Prioritize
As our work changes on a day-to-day basis, consider prioritizing your daily work.
Organization
Does your work need to be organized in a different way now that you are working remotely?
Processes and procedures
Are there new processes and procedures that need to be developed? Have you shared your thoughts with the team and your manager?
Communications
Are your communications with colleagues and clients still professional in these turbulent times? Are you self-monitoring your social media posts to ensure they reflect your desired image?
Schedule
Do you need to communicate your remote schedule to your colleagues, clients, and customers? Consider including this information in your email signature.
Your needs
Have you determined what you need to be successful? Have you discussed this with your supervisor?
Supervisor and team meetings
Are you clear on the process for attending regular meetings with your supervisor and colleagues?
Technology
Are you comfortable using the current technology (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, etc.)?
Scheduled breaks
Have you scheduled breaks and lunch into your day (away from your computer)?
Exercise
How will you move your body each day? Can you go outside?
Creativity
What will you create each day?
Gratitude
During these changing times, consider the following: What am I grateful for today?
Home life
Are you taking care of yourself and family in ways that are best for you?
Resources
If you need them, are you aware of the University’s resources such as the Emergency Loan Fund?