8 Work-From-Home Tips For Brokers

In 2020, most homes across the country transformed into offices as we tried to stop the spread of COVID-19. Since then, many companies have embraced work from home, becoming fully remote or offering employees a hybrid version.

For many, the switch to work from home took some major adjusting. And while we may be more used to it now, we could all use a few tips to help us stay productive, professional and sane while we work from kitchen tables, home offices or even the couch.

Tip 1: Dress For The Job

It can be tempting to throw on your comfiest sweats or stay in your pajamas all day, but it can have a negative effect on your mindset. Without switching your wardrobe, your mind can fail to shift from home to work mode, which can affect your productivity and even your confidence. A smarter idea: Keep it casual but lean toward business casual – as if you’re meeting a client for a quick lunch.

Tip 2: Keep Your Schedule

Your commute to and from work, while stressful, can often be what triggers the start and end of your workday. Without that, you may find it difficult to get into – or leave – work mode, which can disrupt your work-life balance. Without that commute trigger, it’s even more important to keep the same work schedule as you had before. For example, if you worked 9 – 5 before, continue to start your workday at 9:00 a.m. and turn off the computer by 5:00 p.m. You’ll also want to keep your same sleep schedule so on the days you’re needed in the office, you won’t have a harder time waking up early.

Tip 3: Create A Morning Routine

Your weekday morning routine is another important way to trigger the start of your workday. A routine that gets you from your bed to your desk in the morning build a habit, which means it can help you “get to work” on time. From grabbing a cup of coffee and reading the paper to doing a 7-minute exercise or meditation and checking the latest market updates, create a routine that works for you. Without a commute, you’ll have extra time to do a few different activities that you enjoy and put you in the right headspace before working with clients.

Tip 4: Keep Your Data Safe

When working from home, make sure you’re still working through your company’s virtual private network (VPN), which will keep your business safe from cybercriminals if you need to access the internet through a public or shared network.

Tip 5: Take Care Of Your Physical And Mental Health

One of the downsides of working from home is that it can have an effect on your mental and physical well-being. You can start to feel isolated and disconnected and may move around less because you’re in close proximity to everything you need. That’s why it’s imperative to make sure you’re doing things to help take care of yourself. So, what can that look like? Schedule small breaks throughout your day. Take time to go outside for fresh air, sunlight and exercise. Stay in contact with your clients and team members and even increase your communication with them. If you need to work from home due to another national or global event, limit your exposure to the news, choose one or two reliable sources to get your news from and limit or cut off your time on social media.

Tip 6: Make Sure Your Clients Feel Connected

Maintaining strong communication with your clients is essential when you’re working from home. Make sure you’re connecting with them in person or on FaceTime, Zoom or your preferred online meeting option. Keep your clients up to date on any industry news that will affect them. Most importantly, let your clients know that you are there for them and that they can reach out at any time. 

Tip 7: Set Boundaries

Have a designated workspace in your home that is specifically for your work. If you live with others, this will help them know not to bother you while you are in that space or use it for something else. This is especially helpful if you have kids who are home during working hours.

Tip 8: Get A Work Buddy

One of the best things about working in the office is the social benefits. Work from home can get lonely, so join forces with a team member or a friend and check in on one another and hold each other accountable. Meet for coffee or lunch or share an “office space.” Share tips like these and find ways to encourage each other. If you live alone, consider adopting or fostering a pet to keep you company.

TPO is here to help you succeed, whether in the office or working from home, so stay in contact with your Account Executive and let them know how they can help.