HNE Staff According to the freelancing platform Upwork, about 26.7% of the American workforce will continue working remotely by the end of 2021. By 2025, the country might see 36.2 million Americans pursue remote work. It marks around 87% increase from the work-from-home numbers before the pandemic. If you’re one of these statistics, start establishing a better work-from-home setup now.
Don’t let your work-from-home setup at home affect your productivity negatively. Invest in the right items to encourage you to work harder and smarter. These should include the following:
1. Ergonomic Chair and Desk
It’s a common mistake to skimp on your chair, thinking that your dining chair or stool does the job anyway. Remember that you’ll be sitting on that chair at least eight hours a day if you’re a full-time employee. It helps to be as comfortable as possible to keep you productive throughout the workday. Invest in an ergonomic chair with a suitable desk and set them up at a height that will support your correct posture while working. It will be good for your shoulders and lower back.
2. Fast and Stable Internet Connection
There’s nothing more annoying and embarrassing than getting cut off in the middle of a meeting because your internet connection is slow or your Wi-Fi is not that robust. All the work you do online will burn through a limited plan’s bandwidth. Upgrade to an unlimited one if you have frequent video conferences and don’t want to pay extra charges for additional bandwidth.
Other remote workers invest in a backup internet connection to avoid affecting their productivity every time their existing plan fails them. You might want to do the same thing, too.
3. Keyboard and Mouse
If you spend a good chunk of your workday typing away on your keyboard, invest in the right keyboard for the kind of work that you do. Ergonomic keyboards work best for frequent typing. Gaming keyboards are ideal for work that involves online games. Keyboards with a numeric keypad are necessary for a job that involves numbers. Some like mechanical keyboards, while others love those with scissor-switch types. Check the keyboard’s compatibility with your computer, the design you want for aesthetics or comfort, wired or wireless feature, and its price.
You’d think any mouse will do, especially if you only do light work on your computer. However, a cheap mouse will not be as reliable, responsive, and comfortable to use as a quality mouse. Choose the right mouse according to the nature of your work, too.
4. Noise-canceling Headphones
In a work-from-home setup, you’re going to need headphones with effective noise cancellation. The people you’re talking to need to hear you clearly. You’re also going to use headphones to shut the world out for better focus and listen to music during your breaks. Like everything else, look for one that is comfortable, has excellent sound, and is within your budget. It could be wired or not, depending on your preference.
5. Computer
Assess how task-intensive your work is on the computer before choosing the right computer or laptop for you. Everyday tasks might require at least a Core i5 or an AMD equivalent. Choose one with a robust GPU if you’re using demanding apps, such as Microsoft 365. If your work involves opening multiple tabs at once, choose at least 6GB of RAM and at least 265GB SSD of memory. If you have even bigger files, save them on an external hard drive.
6. Laptop Stand
If you use a computer or laptop for hours, the screen should be at eye level. You can raise it using an adjustable laptop stand. Maintaining this posture will help you increase your productivity without the usual eye strain and body aches. Using a laptop stand will also improve airflow for your device, improve your productivity, and boost your metabolism as you stand more while working. Look for a laptop stand that will maintain your ergonomic position whether you’re sitting or standing.
7. Webcam
With video conferencing being a frequent mode of communication during online meetings, using a dedicated high-quality webcam makes a world of difference. It can help you come across as a professional with clearer video.
8. Software and Security Tools
Don’t be complacent with your security just because you’re working from home. Be vigilant more than ever against hackers and other malicious attackers. For one, invest in a hardware firewall like Firewalla to protect your network from unwanted ads and cyberattacks.
Invest in quality software programs to support your work as well. These include word processing programs, spreadsheets, image editing software, and video conferencing apps.
Consider buying or at least trying other security tools, such as VPN software to protect your online activities and password manager to provide you with strong and encrypted passwords.
9. Chargers and Other Accessories
Look for a charger that can accommodate most of the gadgets and devices you’re using. It will help minimize pulling chargers in and out of sockets and the mess caused by the wiring around your work area.
You might also want to invest in accessories, such as wireless chargers, cord organizers, tablet or mobile phone stands, and surge protectors, among others.
10. Lighting Fixtures
Turn up your productivity with decent lighting. An even better option would be to invest in a smart lightbulb that you can easily control to suit your working condition or mood.
Using proper lighting reduces the risk of health and safety problems. It also stimulates your energy to work and finish tasks off your to-do list. Consider adding task lighting, ambient lighting, and even accent lighting to your home office space.
Conclusion
Make the most out of your work-from-home set up with the right gears and equipment. You’ll see the returns on your investment in the setup once you increase your productivity, reduce your body aches from working for hours, and get motivated to start work again the next day.
Here’s another article about the affordable ways to improve home office. These tips can also improve your workspace and make your office hours more productive.
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