Five tips for starting a new job remotely

1. Optimise your work from home set-up

Before your first day on the job, ensure you have the correct equipment – including a chair, desk, camera, and microphone, if required – and that it is set up in a way that is comfortable for you. Many workplaces can provide specific equipment, so be sure to check with your new employer if this applies to you.

Set up your workstation in a room with minimal noise and visual disruption, and appropriate lighting. It is also important to ensure you have good internet connectivity, and the required programmes and software installed.

2. Prepare for remote induction

Before your first day, read any relevant induction materials that are shared with you. If possible, try to familiarise yourself with the names of the people you will be working with on a regular basis, and what their role is, particularly in relation to your own. This information is often available on LinkedIn. You can also research the company, its ethos, and major projects in order to help acclimatise yourself to the workplace culture.

3. Learn your co-workers’ communication preferences

Different companies and teams have different ways of working and operating. Remote working means it is increasingly important to consider the manner in which your co-workers prefer to be contacted. Do they like lengthy, detailed emails, for example, or do they prefer to talk on the phone? How often do they want to be updated during a task? Do they enjoy using video calls, or would they rather be contacted via instant messages? These are all things that will probably become evident during your induction and subsequent work, but if you are ever unsure, ask! Which brings us to our next point…

4. Be an advocate for yourself, and do not hesitate to ask questions

Working remotely means you do not have the chance to interact with people in the office and ask questions as you would have previously. Now, you have to make a point of calling, emailing, or messaging if you need advice. It is important to do this to ensure that you continue to improve in your role, and do not become overwhelmed or make avoidable mistakes.

If the opportunity is not already offered to you, try to schedule regular progress/catch-up meetings with your manager. These will provide a frequent chance for you to proactively seek out feedback, set goals for your future work, and ask for help when you feel unsure.

5. Keep helpful prompts available

Write yourself a ‘quick reference’ guide. This could be in a notebook, Word document, or even on sticky notes stuck around your desk; whatever works best for you. The guide should be easily accessible, and provide a quick reminder of important details related to your work (e.g. the names and roles of colleagues, major projects, relevant websites, contact emails/phone numbers, etc.).

We hope these tips prove helpful, and wish you the best of luck in your new role!

To learn more about the impact of the pandemic on the world of work, see our article How the pandemic might affect the world of work in 2021.

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