Successful remote and hybrid work
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, office culture has undergone a monumental shift. Per the Pew Research Center, only 7% of workers worked at home full-time prior to the pandemic. As of March 2023, the number of full-time remote workers in the U.S. is at 35%. As new workplace models stabilize, perhaps the biggest emerging class is that of the hybrid worker—41% of workers who have jobs that can be done remotely do.
Here are three things to keep in mind in this evolving environment:
Try new strategies for productivity and focus.
It’s important to feel confident that you can get work done and do it well no matter your location. You might have naturally headed to the break room for a cup of coffee to continue a chat with your coworkers while in the office, but taking time and space away from your desk may not feel as natural at home. Schedule time for yourself with purpose. Apps and digital productivity tools are a powerful way to discover new ways to structure your day, and can help you set and track goals to increase your connection to your work. If you’re in a rut, it might be time to try and gamify your work day. You can also register for UMN Google Days (June 12 and 13, via Zoom) to learn how to make better use of the Google Workspace suite of tools.
Seek social connection in new ways.
Many people rely on their workplaces to provide at least some of our vital need for regular social connection. Social interaction is also a critical component in building trust and camaraderie among your colleagues. Even if you’re not physically close enough to meet for coffee or lunch, there are ways to maximize connection. Schedule one-on-one video or phone calls to work out a problem you might otherwise do over a lengthy email. Hold a virtual coworking session over Zoom. Work with your leaders and colleagues to find opportunities for in-person meetings that work for your team. Set up a Google Group to check in with your team or reach out to colleagues via the Communicators Forum if you need a second opinion.
Set boundaries for your work and home life.
When your work and home spaces are the same, it’s easier to let your mental boundaries blur. Try setting specific working hours and working locations on your Google Calendar. Your campus teammates and partners will see notifications in Google if they are messaging you outside of those times or if they should set up a Zoom meeting when you’re working from home. Don’t forget to schedule time off, whether it is a day or two for a long weekend or planning a longer trip. It’s important for mental wellbeing and gives you more time to pursue hobbies, recharge, and maintain your sense of self outside of work. The next time you log into MyU, remember to take advantage of the wealth of mental health and wellbeing resources linked in the main menu—from online classes to specialized employee programs.
Also, remember to review Work. With Flexibility., the University’s guide on both where and when work takes place for faculty staff, and student workers. If you have additional questions about strategies and resources for hybrid and remote work, please reach out to internalcomms@umn.edu.