Many call centers have transitioned to a working from home model. As a result, call center leaders appreciate the change as much as their team members do.
Working from home increases flexibility, which is a win for both employees and employers. Employees enjoy eliminating the daily commute, that the dress code is more relaxed, and they can grab a drink from the convenience of their kitchen.
However, working from home isn’t without challenges. Here are seven best practices to set yourself up for success in a work from home environment.
7 Tips to Help You Succeed Working From Home
1. Create a dedicated space
You must have a specific workspace devoted to working from home during business hours, even if it’s just a corner in your room.
Decorate it, so it’s welcoming and enjoyable to work in for extended periods. Consider placing pictures of family or friends on your desk, along with a plant or fresh flowers each week. The key is to make it personal.
2. Have a routine
It is very easy to consume yourself at work and forget to look at the time. Stick with the hours of operations assigned to you. Take regular breaks and remember that balancing work and your personal life is essential.
3. Move your body
Get up and move! Your body likes to stretch and move. During breaks, take a stroll around the block for fresh air, walk around the house, climb a flight of stairs or two, or step outside to check the mail.
4. Set guidelines for the household
One of the many benefits of working from home is being closer to family. It can also be a considerable disadvantage.
Setting boundaries with the household is critical for working from home. It allows you to get your job done with as little distraction as possible. For example, if you know your children come home from school at a specific time, consider scheduling breaks around that time so you can help minimize potential distractions.
5. Get supplies
Your company may provide all of the essentials required for working from home. Additionally, there may be items you want to enhance your working at home experience.
The right things that may make a difference will be an extra monitor, web camera, supportive chair, wireless mouse, earbuds, additional lighting, drink coasters, tissues, notebooks, pens, or sticky notes.
6. Actively engage in remote meetings
Call center leaders understand the importance of bridging the gap from an in-office to a remote setting. As a result, call center teams engage virtually in regular team meetings and team-building activities.
Participating in meetings helps build camaraderie with the team and leadership, even when not in person.
7. Pat yourself on the back
Working from home can be challenging, especially when it’s your first time transitioning from a traditional office.
Be sure to give yourself praise often, big and small. Share the achievements you have made throughout the week with your team and discuss the goals you are working to achieve. Usually, when you do, you’ll likely learn a best practice from a peer that will help you accomplish your goals faster.
Everyone needs a little extra motivation to get through the day occasionally, so check out these 12 inspirational quotes when you need a little extra encouragement.
Set Yourself Up for Successfully Working From Home
Working from home as a call center agent can be both challenging and rewarding. The transition to a remote work environment can be difficult at first, but with the right mindset and tools, it is possible to thrive and succeed.
The seven tips discussed in this article provide practical guidance for call center agents to improve their productivity, communication, and overall well-being. From creating a comfortable workspace to taking breaks and staying connected with colleagues, these strategies can help agents stay motivated and engaged while working remotely.
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Christine Duvall is an Operations Manager for Quality Contact Solutions, an AnswerNet Company. With a decade of contact center experience, Christine is an innovative leader who aims to continually improve quality and performance while challenging the status quo. A developed self-awareness combined with general awareness enables Christine to make intentional, wise decisions. Christine promotes open communication and fosters a participative work environment to build trust with her team and clients. Christine approaches people as a steward trusted to help them become their best and reach common goals.
