3 Best Practices for Remote Work in IT

Remote work in IT has become increasingly prevalent since the pandemic. Regardless of whether an IT role is hybrid or entirely remote, the ability to work from elsewhere offers both unique benefits and challenges for workers. Oftentimes, workers find remote work isolating or less productive which has led companies like Amazon to mandate full returns to in-person.  

In this article, we break down three best practices for remote work in IT to ensure productivity and well-being. 

Best Practices for Remote Work in IT

1. Optimize the workday.

One of the greatest challenges for remote IT workers is optimizing their workdays. When in an office, workers have relative structure in that they have a dedicated workspace and established routines. Those working from home, however, may find it easier to stray from structure, which can lead to unproductivity and burnout.  

One strategy to ensure productivity is to establish a daily routine. Remote IT workers should set consistent work hours to mimic being in an office setting. It’s also vital to include breaks throughout the workday to avoid burnout.  

Additionally, designing a dedicated workspace is important to create a divide between work and home life. While this does not need be an entire room, it’s vital to have a quiet, ergonomic area dedicated to work. If possible, ask your firm if they’re able to provide resources to make your setting more comfortable, like a home desk, monitor, or other IT equipment.  

 2. Consider cybersecurity and data.

Protecting data and sensitive work materials can sometimes be an afterthought for IT workers used to working in protected offices. It’s vital for remote workers, however, to follow company guidelines closely.  

One best practice for protecting company data is to secure your home network. Oftentimes firms have specific VPNs, but if not, employees can ask for guidance on company-approved third-party network protectors. Additionally, you should ensure that Wi-Fi networks are encrypted and protected with strong passwords.  

Updating systems and software on a regular basis is also key. It can be easy to ignore system updates for extended periods, but workers should understand the importance of keeping operating systems, antivirus programs, and any company software up to date.  

Finally, remote workers must be careful not to fall for online phishing attempts. IT employees, especially those with access to sensitive data, must not open emails from unknown, external senders. Additionally, links and downloads from unverified sources can lead to data and financial losses. If in doubt, a remote worker should send it to internal cybersecurity teams to get verification of safety.   

 3. Maintain work-life balance.

When working from home, the lines between work and personal time can often become blurred. Remote IT workers should thus set clear boundaries around their work hours and availability to prevent overworking. If something pops up or an email comes through, it’s far easier to sit down at a home desk than drive back to an office which can lead remote workers to disregard boundaries that may have existed before.  

Workers should also take dedicated breaks. It can be a misconception that working from home is more relaxing. Instead, many remote IT workers find that they neglect to disconnect. These moments of rest are often found in lunch breaks or small chats around an office, but when working alone, they can be more difficult to follow. It’s key, however, to step away from a dedicated workspace in regular intervals to avoid mental fatigue.  

Finally, remote workers should make dedicated efforts to connect with colleagues socially. Prioritize video conferencing calls as opposed to audio-only so that there’s a greater connection. Additionally, encourage coffee chats that aren’t work related to foster friendships that would have been developed naturally in the office. If your firm doesn’t provide bonding or team activities, inquire about the possibility of creating social committees.    

Looking Ahead

Ultimately, remote work in IT can have amazing advantages including greater flexibility and time with family. It’s important, however, to approach work in a structured way and to be mindful of burnout. As firms deliberate whether they should allow employees to remain remote, it’s vital to continue office-specific skills in case a return-to-office is necessitated.  

Interested in finding your next IT position? We can help! Contact us today to learn more. 

Contributions from Jake Park-Walters