Whether you're new to remote work, or only looking to change stuff from time to time from your home office, this article is for you. Now that you're no longer participating in the Workplace Thermostat Battles, you have a lot of flexibility to find the perfect remote workspace that will help you remain concentrated and productive.
It's another story to find out what looks like. There are so many choices available to remote workers today that the choice of a place to settle may seem overwhelming.
That's why we have to start with the basics. There are some non-negotiable things when it comes to an acceptable workspace, depending on your preferences, working style, and position. In most respects, your room should suit your needs — not the other way around.
Here's what you need to look for to ensure that your remote workspace is conducive to your best work:
Full Access to Amenities
Yeah, you're a brilliant, committed remote worker — but you're just human. Visiting the bathroom from time to time is a must; most of us will also need to break regularly to stretch our legs, make a short personal phone call, or take a drink or snack. Would the place you settle down for work make it possible for you to do one (or all) of those things? If not, are you going to work there just half of the day?
Privacy
Your jobs can include sensitive discussions, whether they concentrate on handling confidential data or other business-related information that can not be widely circulated. Discussing such information in an open space is a no-no, so if this is on your list of workspace needs, you'll need to find a location that allows you to have private conversations — ideally without having to pack up and move all your stuff. You may even have face-to - face meetings that might benefit from a little privacy.
Connectivity
The super cozy café in town is going to lose its charm pretty quickly if you're unable to get a good Wi-Fi signal. If you're looking for a lot of offline, head-down focus, you'll need a workspace that has a secure link for simple messaging and email — and a more efficient one for downloading and uploading image-rich documents, sharing files, and chatting through video conferences. (There are a variety of applications out there that show Wi-Fi hotspots; a few even allow you to actually measure the speed of the network.)
Noise Level
Some people just love to be surrounded by a steady buzz of activity, whether they find it in a common coffee shop or coworking room. Others would rather make noise-canceling headphones than be forced to listen to a conversation two tables away. If you're easily distracted by what's going on in the background, you're going to want to consider workspaces quieter (or even entirely silent) so you're not losing focus.
Physical Comfort
Are you a person of a low-light, bright or natural light type? What temperature makes it feel most comfortable for you? Do you want to sink into a cushioned armchair or would you want to have a sturdy, traditional office chair? What's with a standing desk or a bar table? Are there any scents that you find relaxing that you'd like to be around when you're working, or are there any that you find completely repulsive? Consider these issues when you weigh the pros and cons of spaces run by others, or one entirely regulated by you.
Are You Ready to Find Your New Virtual Address, Mailbox or Office?
We have just what you are looking for! Victory Workspace serves professionals in the Walnut Creek, California area. At Victory Workspace, we offer a variety of Virtual Office packages designed to give you all the benefits of a traditional office at a fraction of the cost. What does it mean to have a virtual office? What would it look like to have one? How would it change your business and your day-to-day work life? We are the leaders in virtual workspaces in Walnut Creek because we have an innovative and comprehensive approach to non-traditional workspaces. To learn more, set up your free tour or inquire about which one of services might be right for you, reach out to one of our amazing Community Guides at Victory Workspace for more information.
