The popularity of remote workers has increased greatly in the last few years. Employees who can do their job from home are finding that they are more focused, efficient, and productive in getting the tasks completed. With today’s tech, they no longer need to feel disconnected or out of the loop when it comes to what’s going on with current projects or office happenings.
Complaints of Remote Workers
As with any job, there are issues that need to be resolved, no matter where the work is being done. Many remote workers complain that they often always feel constantly “at work” since their office is where they live. They also have problems separating home and work when it comes time to shift gears. Some remote workers find it challenging to manage distractions and keep up communications with colleagues.
On the technical side, there are some common problems that remote workers face. Here are a few of the most common tech blunders that remote workers say they encounter all the time.
Communication Snafus
In order to stay in touch with colleagues, many businesses use messaging apps such as Slack. Through the Slack interface, teams can set up spaces, called channels, to have conversations and discuss projects. So instead of having to fish through your email to follow a thread, it’s all in one place, visible to everyone. Unfortunately, sometimes the video aspect of this program or similar programs gets accidentally turned on and there you are for all to see at the office. Be sure to check that you are aware if your video feature is turned on that you should probably be wearing pants and that the background is not all of your dirty laundry piled on a couch!
In addition, if you use other communication methods such as Google Hangout for meetings or conference calls, be sure to hit mute if you plan to eat or drink during meetings, or if there are children screaming in the background. Many a meeting has been interrupted by at-home antics.
Internet or Connection Issues
We have all had issues with connecting to the internet at some point or another. Unfortunately, if you are working from home and accessing your own router and wi-fi, then you are on your own to fix the problem before an important meeting or conference call is missed. We suggest always having a back up plan in case this occurs. There are plenty of open workspaces available, such as Staples Studio where you have everything at your fingertips to conduct your business. If you don’t live near a workbar or workspace, you can always go to a coffee shop in a pinch.
Hardware Issues
Again, this is another common problem for remote workers that may require that you bring said component in to be serviced at the office such as your laptop, mouse, keyboard, or printer. Ask for a backup plan in case you have these glitches often. Your IT department may have loaner options or a protocol for repairing and replacing technology on a regular basis.
Does your office have remote workers? What are some common problems your remote employees experience? Drop us a line and let us know in the comments.
Categorised in: Computer Support, email, IT Consulting Services, laptop, mobile issues, remote workers