After meeting with Antoinette Emanuel and going through her tips on how to create a home office (read her tips here), I have made some upgrades to my working space at home. Why? Basically, we do not know for certain when we will be able to go back to the office. The other reason is making my health a priority.
The laptop is not enough. There are specific jobs that can may be done on an iPad, phone or laptop comfortably, but there are other jobs where a portable device is not enough. Working with spreadsheets, analyses, lists or graphic designs from 9am to 5pm (if so) can give you a headache due to the small screen size. And, think about the time you waste by switching between screens! All this back and forth to check your inbox or multiple files decreases your productivity. Getting two monitors -just like you had at the office- is a game changer. At least, it was for me. I still see big executives relying exclusively on the laptop. I do not know how they keep track of the constantly-growing inbox.
The laptop native camera does not translate your best image. This is especially important for those in sales. Think how your clients see you from that low angle (the most unflattering that can exist). Besides, having a proper webcam with a good resolution will transmit the best image of yourself if properly lit. Place the desk close to a window and it will be enough. No additional lights are needed if you do not hold video calls at night.
Now that we covered the camera, let’s cover what is more important: the sound. Trying to have a meeting with someone in room with echo or mumbling like they are underwater is so annoying and difficult to decipher. It is not efficient if you work with a team and hold various calls during the day. Invest in a good microphone, your team will thank you.
The desk you work on, is it ergonomic? The fantasy of working from the coffee shop might be true for some professions, but not an 8-hour workday. Get yourself a height adjustable desk. Sitting for 8 hours is not healthy. Health should be your priority in these unprecedented times.
Your home office setup can make or break your professional online image.
Poli Arias
What about your chair? Are you keeping a good posture? Or are you working sitting on the floor or laying on your bed like in some ads. Let me tell you, after so many months of WFH, your back spine deserves better.
Maximize your workspace. I got an upright stand for my laptop which keeps it safe away from spills while optimizing a clean space. One of the best accessories for my essentials.
Shut the computer at 5pm if possible. Keep your fitness program. At least, leave the house to walk and get some air. Disconnect every day. It is very hard to do, but -again- your mental health is priority.
Personal branding involves how we speak, dress and behave -even in virtual meetings. Set a time aside and reflect on what is the image you want to project, work on it and share with the world! Remember to always be good to yourself. Take care.
