By Heather Daiza
Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani LLP
We are beginning to see a light at the end of this COVID-19 quarantine, though the Center for Disease Control has properly recommended that no one should let their guards down. That said, if you have not returned to your office in-person already, you have probably already developed and implemented “tried and true methods” on what remote-work methods work most effectively for you. Do not alter an already successful formula, but keep in mind the following tips to avoid “burn out” and ensure a successful, productive, and happy future with remote work.
Review Your Calendar
You should review your calendar as your first morning task. This task is not billable, or something tangible that attorneys are given credit for, which means it is appealing to undervalue. That said, even a few minutes of your time will make you more efficient because you will know how to budget your time and prioritize tasks, also taking into account the schedules of others who play a role in the project. Advanced planning makes others around you — including clients, colleagues, consultants, and staff — more effective and happier to work with you.
Make Weekly or Bi-Weekly Plans
Communicate with your team through weekly or bi-weekly plans for your team, however short the plan may seem. Email traffic has increased exponentially and we may not see every email in a timely fashion, so find the method of communication the partner obtains the most value out of and provide everyone with a plan. That way, everyone is aware of which tasks need to be accomplished and when.
Ensure Your Workspace is Technology-Advanced
Invest in reliable WiFi or use your Ethernet cable to ensure quick web-based access. Utilize a dual monitor screen, keyboard, and mouse. If your employer is unwilling to provide you with these tools because they are somehow perceived as unnecessary, they are very necessary; plus, monitors are not that expensive, especially refurbished ones. You need multi-screen functionality, especially for document review, motion drafting, and responding to discovery. Also, do not hesitate to purchase a printer and shredder so that you can print highly technical documents and review your big motion for summary judgment before the partner sees it on paper so you can ensure you do not miss anything.
Take Breaks to Go Outside
You already know about the benefits and necessity of Vitamin D and fresh air. Be sure to go outside every two hours for at least five minutes each time, and when you are experiencing “writer’s block.” Realistically, you are unlikely to keep consistent productivity in an isolated setting for ten hours a day. At some point, your production level diminishes. When that happens, walk around outside for a few minutes. It recharges you. You can even use that time to be productive by sending a quick personal email or paying a bill.
Exercise Regularly
You should aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day for five days a week. You do not need to be a “gym rat,” but I cannot emphasize enough how much more effective and sharper we are when we consistently exercise, even if the exercise just involves stretching and power walking. Regular exercise also alleviates stress and helps with sleep.
When Offices Reopen, Consider Working in the Office One Day a Week
While technology has provided the ability to maintain rapport with your team during isolation, there is no substitute for in-person rapport. Bonding with your coworkers, even just to say hi, creates a positive work culture and makes employees better collaborators, happy, and more productive. Interfacing in person also gives you the ability to potentially meet new people, make professional connections, and get varied assignments.
Take Dedicated Lunch Breaks
Make yourself temporarily unavailable for a short period of time during the day (except for urgent deliverables need immediate attention). Try to set your work on “snooze” or “away” during this dedicated time. Not only do you need to set reasonable expectations when completing pending matters, but being overly available or constantly checking emails will distract you, clutter your brain, and make the tasks you are currently working on more time-consuming.
Remember that whatever your future workspace is, put yourself in a position where you will be effective and happy. While these recommendations may appear to create extra work, and some may seem obvious, these often-underutilized strategies are key to building and maintaining the foundation that you need to keep up the great work that you are doing.