Despite the worldwide threat to the health of people, some offices managed to keep their businesses running through the work from home. It’s a set up where employees are no longer required to work in the office or go outside their houses. All transactions are done remotely through online conferences and video calls.
While this is a good solution, it’s a bit challenging for some professionals who don’t normally have a library or study rooms at home. Because of this, their only option to set up a home office so they can continue working. If you are one of these employees who need help when it comes to putting up a workspace at home, this article will give you some guidelines to achieve an ideal home office set up. Let’s take a look at each of them.
1. Start by knowing what you need.
You should start with the basics — knowing what you need. Imagine yourself working in the office and think of the furniture and office supplies that you use there. Now, think if you have those things at home. Some of the common items that you need is a computer or laptop, office tables, chair, and Internet connection.
If you are lucky, your company will provide you with a laptop or a computer. That’s one item out of your checklist. For the rest, you have to know where to get them or you can be resourceful in using some items that you can find at home.
2. Find a working space.
Once you already know or you have prepared the furniture and supplies that you need, it’s time to determine where to place them. Ideally, you need to have a separate room to set up as a home office. However, if you live in a house with limited rooms, you need to open up some corners at home as a workspace.
Some people prefer to set up an office in their bedroom. In that way, you are the only one there, and it’s quieter than other parts of the house, which makes it more conducive for working. However, if you don’t have space in your bedroom, you can also choose a corner in your living room. The key is to maximize the parts of your home.
3. Choose proper office tables.
As Carrie Bradshaw says, it all starts with the table. You have to select a table that you will be comfortable working on. The size has to be fit based on your height, plus it has to be spacious enough so you can put other office supplies there. If you choose the wrong height of an office table, you may feel some discomfort after a few hours of working there.
As much as possible, you don’t want the table to be at the same level as your chest when seated. It has to be between your stomach and your chest. In that way, your shoulders are relaxed even if you are in the seating position the entire day. You can check out some of the best office tables in the market today. There are different shapes and sizes that you can choose that will fit your preference and needs.
4. Make sure your computer is within eye-level
Another factor that you need to consider is the height of your computer monitor. To avoid eye strain or tiredness, make sure that your computer monitor is within eye-level. In that way, you don’t need to bow your head a little bit when reading or typing on the computer. Bending your head for long hours can hurt your neck.
Additionally, you have to make sure that it doesn’t get any glare from the windows. Your light source has to come from the top of your head for a more comfortable view. If you are using a laptop, try to tilt the screen a little bit upwards so you can look at it naturally.
5. Pick a comfortable chair.
Since you are sitting for 2 hours at least before you take your break, it’s ideal that you pick a comfortable chair. If you have extra budget, you can buy one of those gaming chairs because it is designed for long-hour seating. It is ideal to choose a chair with adjustable height.
Moreover, look for an office chair with foam on the seat so your bottom will not hurt. Most importantly, choose the one that has back support so your hips will also feel comfortable. Take note that you should be sitting in 90 degrees position to keep your posture.
6. Lighting is important.
Office lighting is more different from home lights. Houses tend to use warmer lights compared to the office. Make sure to buy extra lights for your workspace if your home is using a regular fluorescent light. Perhaps, try considering gooseneck lights that will highlight a unique dome shade to add plenty of character to your workspace at home and feel the vibes of an office setting. During the day, it’s best if you use natural light, so it will not be too overwhelming. Remember that using proper lights is not just to make you see better when working, it also helps in taking care of your eye.
7. Get a good Internet service.
It’s no brainer that you should always, always put your Internet connection as a priority. Since most transactions are done online these days, you have to make sure that your connection will not drop out whenever you have a video conference. Also, bad Internet service is a lame excuse for not doing your job.
8. Get a good background for video conferences.
Whenever you will have video calls, keep a plain background. Avoid showing your family in the background, as it is very unprofessional. It’s also one of the reasons why you need to set up a strategic space for your home office. Maintain the privacy of your workspace, as much as possible.
9. Take your breaks responsibly.
When working at home, you may be tempted to log in and lie on your bed the whole day. However, as a professional, you have to manage your breaks responsibly. Take your lunchtimes and coffee breaks appropriately.
Shop for home office supplies today!
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