Working from home can be one of the most strategic moves that a person with children can make. However, in order to be successful, it requires conscious planning and flexibility. In order to have a successful union between your household and your work from home job, the two must be able to coexist harmoniously. Developing a flexible plan and a few smart strategies should help with the transition of bringing your work into your home.
Age Appropriate Conversation
Perhaps the first step to take after securing a work from home position is to have a candid conversation with your children. Speak to them in a way that is easy for them to understand and invite questions. Whatever parameters you outline for them make sure that they are reasonable and achievable. Discuss the requirements of your job with a gentle and encouraging tone and let them know that they play a big role in your success and that they are going to be a huge help for your new position by being cooperative.
Location Location Location
Where you set up your home office is an immensely important detail. If your job requires a quiet atmosphere your office shouldn’t be located across from the baby’s room. It is not advantageous for your or the baby. You might disturb the baby’s sleep and the noise level may make it difficult to perform your job in a manner consistent with the demands of your position. Be realistic about what your job requires and make it possible for you to be successful by considering the worst case scenario’s and acting accordingly. If you work from home as a customer service associate for a company that sells industrial ribbon blenders, you know that a noise canceling headset will help reduce or eliminate much of the background noise if your kids happen to get a little boisterous and loud and wonder into your home office. Set yourself up for success by realistically assessing the demands of your household and your job.
Work During Strategic Hours
One strategy that many work-from-home parents utilize is working while their children sleep if their position allows for this kind of flexibility. This may mean getting up a little earlier but this strategy is helpful because of the uninterrupted block of time that you have to work. Otherwise, utilize your breaks to engage your children but let them know that when you are working you should not be disturbed unless it’s an emergency.
Working from home can be a win-win for everyone if planning, organization, and situation-specific strategies are utilized. The benefits of being able to work in the comfort of your own home and around your children can save a lot of money and create peace of mind in knowing that your children are near.
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