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In recent years, working from home has developed from a niche solution to a permanent fixture in the world of work. Especially since the coronavirus pandemic, working from home has become a matter of course for many specialists and managers. However, successful working from home brings special challenges for employees and managers. Although flexible working hours and a better work-life balance are advantages, a lack of structure, distractions and a lack of communication often lead to a loss of productivity. This article shows practical approaches on how companies and employees can work successfully from home.
Working from home often lacks clear structures and direct control by managers. Self-discipline and structured time management are crucial for success. Employees should define fixed working hours and adhere to them consistently in order to increase their productivity and avoid overworking. Managers can support this through clear target agreements and regular coordination. A structured work schedule helps to maintain an overview and set priorities.
A suitable working environment has a direct influence on concentration and work motivation. Experts recommend a separate workplace that is clearly separated from private activities and family life. Ergonomic equipment - from the desk to the office chair to the lighting - also improves health and well-being. Tidiness and clear storage areas help to keep the mind clear and structure the working day better. Managers should encourage their teams to invest in equipment and provide flexible solutions where necessary.
Personal interaction in the office can quickly get lost when working from home. This makes it all the more important to set up regular communication formats. Video conferences, virtual team meetings and active dialog via chat are essential to maintain team spirit and avoid misunderstandings. According to a study by the University of St. Gallen, active communication increases job satisfaction and commitment. For managers, this means not only focusing on results but also on social cohesion and consciously promoting digital communication channels.
One of the biggest challenges of working from home is the mix of professional and private life. The risk of constant availability and overwork is high, which can lead to stress and burnout in the long term. Clear rules on availability, fixed break times and a consistent separation of work and leisure phases are therefore important protective mechanisms. For example, switching off business communication channels outside of working hours can help. Managers should set a good example and promote a culture that takes recovery times into consideration.
Motivation is of central importance for sustainable success when working from home. Studies show that employees who can develop their own working style and have the freedom to be creative and take breaks are significantly happier and more productive. Employers can support this by building trust, offering flexible working models and providing training opportunities for self-organization. A positive attitude towards working from home also promotes well-being and helps to fully exploit the benefits of location-independent working.
Successful home working requires a high degree of self-organization, clear communication, and a conscious separation of work and private life on the part of both employees and managers. Companies that actively shape these factors benefit from happier teams and higher productivity. At the same time, the ability to manage flexible working arrangements professionally is becoming increasingly important in the labor market. Managers should embrace their role as designers of modern working environments and provide targeted support to their teams. For applicants, the ability to work successfully from home is an increasingly important skill factor.
If you are looking for qualified and motivated specialists and managers for your company, we can support you with our specialized network. For over 15 years, the personnel consultants at BESTMINDS have been filling vacancies in the medical technology, healthcare, life sciences / pharma, and IT / media sectors with a wealth of expertise and commitment. We find the right candidates for you in a fair, loyal, and discreet manner. Contact us for a non-binding initial consultation so that we can fill your vacancies optimally and promptly.
