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Communication is an essential resource in your ability to maintain high productivity levels when working from home. The Covid Pandemic has forced people to re-think their work strategies, and choosing the right communication resources has been a top priority. However, not many home workers are aware of the right communication strategies to use for effective results. Therefore, this guide looks at how to improve communication when working from home:
1. Invest in Good Internet Connection
The internet is an important tool for your ability to communicate when working from home. While the internet is essential, you also have to ensure the connection is powerful. You can test the connection speed of your chosen service through sites such as speedtest.net. Any downtime issues in your connectivity, such as during poor weather, are likely to compromise your communication. Ensure you choose a reputable service provider that gives fast responses to your service queries.
2. Get a Good Sound System
You need different types of sound systems for your ability to communicate when working from home. The first one would be a good headset that lets you communicate with people online. A good headset should be comfortable, easy to use, wireless, and come from a reputable brand. Remember the importance of ergonomics, especially as the piece will sit around your earlobes for long periods. The other second communication system would be a good set of speakers. It can be handy when you have additional visitors in your home office or are no longer comfortable with headphones. Fortunately, with sound systems, you need a basic unit that produces quality sound. You don’t have to invest in the same quality systems as you would for music or gaming.
3. Set Your Systems with an Audible Notification
You are likely to be busy the entire time when working from home. That means it will be difficult for you to keep up with any notifications that you receive on your devices. You will have to ensure you incorporate your devices with audible notifications for convenient communication. An audible notification should be easy to hear even when you are communicating on speakerphones. Doing this ensures that you never miss any important messages from workmates or family. The systems you should customize will include your messaging apps and loudspeaker devices such as poly sync options. Some devices even have a vibration feature, which can be handy when engrossed in online meetings.
4. Use the Web Versions of Mobile Communication Software
Using web apps is one of the best ways to focus on important tasks when working from home. You can access your WhatsApp, Skype, and Telegram messages conveniently through the internet. There is no need for you to keep accessing your device each time you have received messages from your workmates. The web versions of the mobile software are excellent because you get to maintain your focus on the workstation. You can also set it alongside notifications so that you only check your account when necessary. You don’t need to perform an installation process because you access the software through a browser. Before using the web software, you might have to scan a QR code to confirm your identity. Once you do this, you will access all your messages through a single user interface online. Remember that these seem like minor shifts to your work, but they can have a massive impact on your productivity.
5. Remember the Importance of Free Video Communication Apps
Video communication applications are also crucial, especially if you have to share ideas and project milestones. The common ones you can use include Whereby and Skype, using features such as group calls. You might have to create free user accounts first before you can use the video communication apps. If you communicate using the platforms regularly, consider adding them to your favorite bookmarks for convenience. These are perfect teleconferencing, whereby you have to speak with other members of your team or department. While software platforms such as Skype sometimes require fees, a considerable portion of their services is free.
Conclusion
You have to be concise in your approach to improving communications when working from home. There are various subtle tools and strategies you can use that will help you maintain optimal productivity.
