Setting Up Your Work Space for Success

If you will have flexible work arrangement, it is important to create a space that can help you optimize your productivity while keeping a healthy separation between your professional and personal space. Below are a few tips and considerations as you prepare for flexible work. Being intentional and mindful about your space will help you achieve success and well-being.  

Find a location in your remote environment with limited distractions. While occasional distractions from family members and pets are inevitable, having a space designated for work is beneficial for several reasons. It helps you to create an intentional and physical separation between your work life and your personal life. It is also important to have a plan for dependent care. 

Tip: Limit distractions by posting “In a Meeting – Available at …” or “Do Not Disturb – Thinking in Progress” or “Free in Five” to communicate with others in your space.  

Set up this space to empower you. Like you might do when you are in your office or cubical, you want to ensure you have what you need nearby for efficiency and self-care.  

• Use a desk and chair. Consider a standing desk to avoid long stretches of sitting in one place. 
• Ensure there is ample light. Be mindful of the source of light if you are required to be on camera often. Observe how the light changes throughout the day. You might consider getting a clip-on light to ensure you can be seen clearly during morning and afternoon meetings. Natural light can be a great energizer. If possible, choose a space with a window or near a source of natural light.  
• What’s behind you matters. Pay attention to what is behind you. Your background should be clean, clutter-free, and free of too many trinkets, images, or items that might be distracting. If this is not possible, utilize the background provided in Teams or Zoom. 
• Set up your staples. Have paper, notebooks, pens, Post-its, files, and other office tools that you typically use.  
• Enrich your space to give you energy. Add a plant, motivational quotes, or other items in the environment that bring you joy and inspire you.  

Think about the technology. If you are someone who will work remotely a couple of days a week, you must ensure you have appropriate technology set up for a seamless and optimal work environment.  

• Internet Access/Bandwidth Considerations. Ensure you have a high-speed, dependable non-public internet connection in your remote environment. Avoid working from public spaces as this can pose an information security risk. Employees with access to confidential information—such as student records and/or health data—need to be especially mindful.  
• Headphones. Consider using a headset, be it earbuds or an actual headset with a built-in microphone. Computer speakers will pick up the sounds in your environment and can create an echo.  
• Camera. Most laptops have built-in cameras, but if you are someone who conducts training or frequently presents using multiple monitors, you might want to consider an external camera.  
• Second Monitor. If you typically use a second monitor when in the office, consider using one at your remote work space for a seamless work experience.  

Please note: As described in the Flexible Work Guidelines, staff who work remotely at their own request will not be reimbursed for personal office equipment or services (e.g., internet and phone service).  Your space can help nurture your well-being. For tips on creating a space to optimize self-care, visit Well-Being Tips for Flexible Work. 

For training on topics mentioned in this section, visit Successful Hybrid Teams.