While it might be true that during the COVID-19 pandemic, our businesses aren’t able to carry on as normal. It doesn’t mean that we can’t do our best to continue from home where possible. If you’re struggling for inspiration on how to make the most efficient and productive use of your time while stuck inside, or you simply want some tips and advice on how to keep the wheels of your business turning as best as they can during self-isolation, here are a few different efficient business practices to think about while self-isolating.
Staying in touch with those important to you
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Consistent communication and teamwork is a large part of what makes a business successful, and so despite not being able to meet with your colleagues, you should try as best as you can to stay in touch with those around you. Thankfully, there are a ton of different free tools that you can use, and as long as you have a decent microphone and webcam – which are built into most computers nowadays (or even usable through your smartphone) – you can get started with them right away. Good examples of video conferencing software that you should be using include Skype, Google Hangouts, or Zoom. The latter in particular has proven popular in the last couple of weeks with business that need more attendants, and even the UK’s Prime Minister has shown screenshots of himself using the software for meetings.
If you and a colleague work collaboratively on a file, and both need to access it at the same time, then you should also think about an adequate cloud software storage. Many different businesses already use these anyway – platforms such as Dropbox or Microsoft’s OneDrive – and they allow you to access your files from anywhere. This is, of course, a massive help during self-isolation, and also means that if anything should happen to your computer or mobile phone, you have your much-important work backed up.
Build on your investment prospects
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If you’ve got a diverse and extensive investment portfolio then you’ll already know to keep a keen eye on it at all times, and particularly during unprecedented periods such as this where markets can be volatile. Many investors that have large investments in things like stocks or shares are beginning to shift their capital into things more secure, long-term and hard-wearing, such as property/real estate.
If you’re new to investment and perhaps want to get started, you can do so from the comfort of your own home.
RWinvest
, for example, a property investment company with offerings throughout investment hotpots throughout the UK that are set to thrive in the coming months and years, offer free guides, videos and podcasts online that you can take a look at if you want to get started. For those wanting to view properties, they even provide a remote virtual viewing experience that uses VR tech.
Use the right equipment and software
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As a final point, it goes without saying, but you need to make sure that you’ve got the right kit at home to actually get the job done. That might mean investing in an upgraded computer, or even bringing your workstation home with you if your business will allow it, but it’ll be worth it in the long run when you can get stuff done as quickly as you would have been able to at your normal desk space. Making do on an older laptop that isn’t as quick might end up hurting you in the long run, and it can be frustrating, too.
Tip – While office network infrastructure is set up for multiple devices and high-speed usage, a lot of home internet systems won’t be as fast or competent normal internet speeds. If you find yourself struggling to get online or cutting in and out due to patchy internet, try moving closer to your router/hub, investing in some wireless boosters if you’re far away from the hub, or even wiring yourself into the hub completely.
