The Covid pandemic has made a lot of changes in our lives, some of which may be enduring ones. After the rapid pivot to working as remotely as possible in 2020, it appears that one of the most lasting alterations may be to the way we get work done. In fact, Queen Consulting’s recruiters are noticing that our consultants are turning down on-site jobs in favor of remote work, and we suspect that many employers may have difficulty having employees return to the office full-time!

Because of its many benefits, the shift to remote work is here to stay, at least to one degree or another. And that means that more people will be starting new jobs remotely. Adjusting to a new job without face-to-face contact, however, can be a challenge.

We at Queen have gathered our best tips for starting a job remotely to help you succeed in this next phase of your career.

DEVELOPING RELATIONSHIPS REMOTELY

Because you won’t have frequent in-person interactions, you’ll need to be more intentional about building good working relationships as you begin your new job.

Working with Your Manager

Your direct supervisor will play the major role in your new job, so it’s worth it to establish open and consistent communication, even if it’s not face to face.

• Set up a regular check-in meeting, once or twice a week or more, where you’ll cover any questions you have, roadblocks you’ve encountered and resources you need.

• Ask about the best ways to communicate in your new company: phone, emails, Teams or similar, Slack or similar, etc.

• Request to sit in on as many remote meetings as possible.

• Ask which team members and other key coworkers you should meet with.

OTHER CHALLENGES OF STARTING REMOTELY

In addition to becoming familiar with your manager, coworkers, and the company culture, you’ll need to consider other challenges when beginning a new job from your home.

Balance Home and Work

It can be tough to separate your work activities from everything else when you’re doing it all in the same space. Queen recommends setting boundaries around your work time and space. Having a designated work area is crucial in helping avoid distractions. And a schedule with defined breaks will give needed structure to your day while keeping you energized.

Set up Your Work Space

Your productivity depends on having the right technology working smoothly, so invest in a tech setup that’s up to speed. For instance, consider purchasing a WiFi extender so that you have reliable coverage. A well-functioning webcam and mic (and uncluttered backdrop) are also essential to communicating with your coworkers. For your ergonomic health, be sure your chair and workspace setup encourages good posture.

HOW QUEEN CONSULTING SUPPORTS YOU

When Queen places you in a new remote position, you can count on us to get to know you and your situation, offer suggestions and help you become comfortable with your new employer.

• We provide background introductory information on the company, your manager and any other Queen consultants working there.

• We provide a start packet, which includes a guide to remote office setup.

• We will check in with you during your first week to answer questions and help you untangle any technical issues.

• Ongoing, we will advocate for you as needed and be available to answer your questions.

Advice and Tips from Queen Recruiters

Two of our Technical Recruiters, Ellie Banholzer and Macayla Schmidt, shared a few of their favorite tips for starting a remote job.

“Even though you’re working remotely, treat the job as seriously as you would an in-person assignment. That means being prepared to start your day. A pre-work routine will get you in the mindset for work, even if you no longer have a commute.”—Macayla

“And always be professional in terms of your appearance and clothing.”—Ellie

“Set up regular check-ins with coworkers and your manager. The more touchpoints, the better.”—Macayla

“When communicating with your manager and coworkers, choose a quick video meeting instead of a message or call. That face-to-face contact helps everyone get to know each other better. This is where Teams or a similar product is great because of the fast, easy contact.”—Ellie

“When you’re sitting in on a meeting, don’t be afraid to speak up if you have something to contribute. You may have that unique knowledge or experience than can benefit the entire team.”—Macayla

“Because you won’t be able to learn by example or by watching over a coworker’s shoulder, don’t be hesitant to ask for a video walkthrough of a new skill or task.”—Ellie

From all of us at Queen Consulting, congratulations on your new remote job! We hope these guidelines and tips help you get up to speed quickly while you establish great working relationships with your new team.