WFH like a pro: home office hacks and staying connected
Splitting your working time between home and the office? With hybrid work now the norm, it’s worth getting your setup right.
There are some simple changes you can make to improve your workspace, stay connected with your team, and even cut down on energy bills.
Leah Lambart, Career Coach and Director of Relaunch Me, says how you set up your home workspace matters, but it’s not just about equipment: staying connected with your team is equally important for success.
“A professional work environment is important and keeping distractions to a minimum helps keep you focused and productive,” she says.
Lambart also emphasises the need for visibility. “People have to remember to keep connected and stay visible within the organisation. Even if you’re a good worker and you are productive, it’s still important to maintain the work relationships and connections.”
You don’t need a full home office makeover. Just a few small adjustments can help you work from home more effectively.
From workspace setup to staying visible, here’s what to focus on:
1. Create a dedicated workspace
Set up a designated area as your work station. Not everyone has the luxury of space for a dedicated office at home, but even having an organised space can help you get into work mode.
If possible, find a spot with natural lighting throughout the day. This can help reduce electricity costs, with the added benefit of getting some sunshine to improve your mood during the work day.
Make sure you have all the equipment you need: a desk and chair, internet connection, laptop and/or computer screens, and headphones or earbuds.
Try keep the space clean and decluttered, particularly the background which can appear during video calls. You can use storage containers or desk drawers to keep your desk tidy.
2. Manage your comfort
Set your air conditioning to a comfortable temperature that doesn’t send your energy bills skyrocketing. In warmer months, aim for 24-26 degrees, and 18-21 degrees in winter.
With your desk setup, make sure your chair is comfortable and set to the right height with your screens to maintain a correct posture. Take regular breaks from your screen and do some light stretches to prevent neck, shoulder and arm strains.
3. Know your tax deductions
The Australian Taxation Office offers deductions for expenses if you work from home including stationery, energy costs and office equipment. Check if you meet the criteria to claim these types of expenses.
4. Stay visible with your team
Make visibility a priority by scheduling consistent check-ins with your manager and showing up to meetings with your camera on. Find ways to connect with your team beyond just work tasks.
As Lambart emphasises, people working from home need to actively stay connected and visible within their organisation. Even if you’re doing excellent work, it’s important to maintain those work relationships. “You don’t want to become invisible.”
The goal is to make sure your work is recognised, your professional relationships stay strong, and you stay part of the team dynamic.
5. Set clear boundaries
When your home is your office, work can easily bleed into personal time. Set clear start and end times for your workday and communicate your availability to colleagues.
Remember to switch off properly at the end of the workday to maintain a healthy balance. Get these elements right and working from home can be just as effective as being in the office, while giving you the flexibility to work in a way that suits your life.
