Set Yourself Up For Success With These Work-From-Home Must-Haves

Are you considering working remotely? While it might be tempting to rush out and buy all new equipment and supplies to set up a fancy home office, the truth is, you probably won’t need much. In fact, one of the best things about flexible jobs is the lack of equipment required. Here are a few things you’ll need to set yourself up for success. Before you start applying for all those remote jobs, check these work from home must-haves off your list.

1. A fast, reliable internet connection

If you want to successfully work from home, you’ll need a good internet connection you can rely on. Virtually every remote position you will find involves the use of a computer with home internet, and you’ll likely need a high-speed connection to complete some tasks and communicate with your employers. You won’t want to make a sudden departure from a virtual meeting because you lost your internet connection. While sometimes it’s fine to work from a coffee shop, library, or other public place, there will definitely be times where you need to work from your home, so make sure you have an internet provider you can trust.

2. A high-quality computer

While you don’t have to go out and spend thousands of dollars on a top-of-the-line computer, having a device you can trust is just as important as good internet service. Most people who work flexible jobs prefer to use laptops so they really can work from anywhere. However, a desktop computer is fine if that’s what you have or prefer. All that matters is that it’s reliable.

3. A designated workspace

Perhaps you have an entire room to dedicate to your home office, or maybe there’s an empty corner in your living room that’s perfect for a desk. The fact is, remote workers perform better when they use a designated workspace for their jobs, so you’ll definitely need a place to set up your office. Choose a quiet area that is often free from distractions, preferably with a door (or at least a place you can leave completely when your work day is done). Not only will it help you focus, but it will also make it easier to disconnect and relax when you’re done with your tasks for the day.

4. Good lighting

The last thing you’ll want to be worrying about while you’re trying to work is being able to see. Headaches and eye strain are common for people who use computers all day, so make sure your work space has plenty of soft, natural light.

5. A quality desk and chair

One of the best parts of working from home is having the privilege of choosing your own desk and chair. You won’t have to worry about an uncomfortable office chair hurting your back when you can go out and buy your own. And if you’re worried about your health, you can always work from a standing desk, take regular standing breaks, or sit on an oversized exercise ball instead.

6. Proper software

The software you’ll need will depend on the kind of remote jobs you’re pursuing. You might only need a simple word processing and spreadsheet application, or you may need to invest in additional software. Once you accept a job, that should be your first priority.

7. Self-motivation

Unfortunately, being a self-starter isn’t something that comes naturally to everyone, nor is motivation something you can buy. But since you won’t be completing your work under the watchful eye of a manager, you’ll have to have inherent self-motivation if you want to be successful as a work-from-home employee. You will have the freedom to set your own schedule, which means you can plan to work when you’re naturally most productive. If you’re a morning person, waking up early and getting a lot of work done before lunch will be easy. If you’re a night owl, you can start your work day in the afternoon as long as it works for your team. But you’ll need to be self-motivated to avoid procrastinating and get your work done.   — If you enjoyed reading our article about Set Yourself Up For Success With These Work-From-Home Must-Haves, visit appen.com/careers to see our available opportunities.