The idea of work from home for developers is finally becoming popular due to the Coronavirus pandemic. However, remote work has been on the rise, even before the COVID19 crisis. There are plenty of benefits to working from home for both employers and remote programmers. In a remote working environment, employers can tap into a much larger pool of talent. More developers would be able to find jobs that complement their skill-sets. But for newbies – working from home can be challenging and overwhelming.
Here’s some advice from professionals with remote work experience:
For Remote Developers
1. Results matter.
As a remote worker, your company is placing a tremendous amount of trust in you. It is your responsibility to perform efficiently and professionally. Be responsible and be transparent. These are the principles we promote and instill in every developer here at Epicenter.
2. Remote working takes diligence and discipline.
Create a work environment that, when you’re in it, you’re motivated to work. If you have space, create a dedicated office. When you’re in the office, you’re working. Define your work boundaries. And communicate your expectations with family or roommates.
Using the same space for work and leisure disturbs routine and reduces efficiency. Don’t mix work and pleasure! Separate the two areas for focussed attention and complete relaxation in their own time and space.
3. Adapting to the new norm of video conferences.
If you’re going to work remotely, you’re going to be on some video conferences sooner or later. Some remote workers like to dress comfortably or skip showering in the morning, or whatever their routine may be. While comfort is very important, looking professional leaves a good impression. Working on a stand-up desk can be helpful when attending video meetings. You may occasionally be wearing shorts, but also make sure nobody is aware of that.
4. Choose your words carefully and communicate well.
Communication is essential to remote work. The better and more frequently you interact, the more you’ll learn and be successful.
For Business Owners
1. Results matter.
It is more critical the software product is completed on time and within the budget than ensuring your developers are showing up every day. Focussing on minutes and micromanaging the developers can hamper efficiency. What really matters is that you have a great product in the end.
2. Trust your developers.
Work from home does not mean your employees are sitting around in sweats eating Cheetos and watching Netflix in the background. Set some ground rules on the expectations and trust that your employees are going to follow them.
3. Create a level playing field between remote work and office work.
Establish rules that everyone needs to follow. Whether they’re in the office or remote. Each team has its own set of practices and procedures; make sure they are applied consistently and fairly. Work from home for developers can be extremely beneficial for successful development; Provided an efficient process is in place from the beginning of the project.
Note: Trello, the communication and collaboration application, has an outstanding PDF guide on How to Embrace Remote Work.