Working Remotely

Neumann employees, your HRRM colleagues are here for you!

We may not have all the answers, but the NU community will grow through this together! Just think of all our newly enhanced skill sets!

We all react differently to change. Working from home can be beneficial for some, and VERY stressful for others. Regardless, try and remain flexible and empathetic.

Communicate- Go above and beyond to communicate progress on projects, assignments and key deadlines (out-of-sight can often fuel assumptions that you’re not working on it). Updates as FYIs are great at relieving team stress.

Guidelines- Set guidelines with your supervisor/team to establish an urgent protocol to handle those situations that require a more immediate response; as well as protocols for daily/standard/regular tasks.

Manage e-mail time- Define “urgent.” When working from home every e-mail can seem like an urgent e-mail, to the point where you don’t get any work done except managing your inbox. Be aware of this; defined team expectations, guidelines and communication will help.

If possible - Create an official – separate – home workspace- It is important to have space/a spot that you can physically and mentally enter and leave each day. It should have good lighting and a comfortable (but not your “comfy”) chair! Officially signaling “work” to your brain through a designated workspace may help to transition you from home functions/habits to a different, more office/campus type of productivity.

Build in stress management exercises- Stand up regularly, look outside at nature, breathe deeply; this gives your brain a nice mental health break during the day.

For some – Virtual face-to-face meetings- If you gain energy and excitement from being in the office, and find yourself missing that connection, take the initiative to schedule collaboration calls and use the camera on your phone or computer to hold “face-to-face meetings.” Be understanding of those who may not be as comfortable with this method.

News

• If watching too much news and/or TV increases your anxiety, depression and stress remember to limit your screen
• Always monitoring breaking news may be breaking us, right
• Stay informed, but perhaps establishing limits for yourself may help to keep you focused and productive.

Other common tips

• Get dressed for the day; it mentally and physically prepares you for work.
• Take your lunch break; take your full lunch break without work distractions.
• Try and stick to your daily work routine while you are working at home.
• Keep your sleep schedule on track!