Where once work-from-home (WFH) was not the norm, now everyone with a desk job has done it or is still doing it.

Many are making new job opportunity decisions based on being able to work from home. Many people have never set themselves up properly to WFH because they could not get the equipment or did not want to pay for it.

The cost of working from home does not have to be big, and below we will share what you may need and some handy tips.

Work from Home (WFH) means an employee is not working from a central office and instead working remotely, most likely from their home.

Why do I need more than a laptop and a phone?

The simplistic thought of sitting back on the lounge with your PC on your lap sounds appealing. The reality is it will not be very productive and is terrible for your posture.

Sitting correctly and having a screen at the right eye level and ergonomic peripherals will mean that you will minimize health issues as you age. Indeed, according to this federal government jobaccess website:

“It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that all staff are provided with a safe working environment and have the tools and equipment they need to do their job. This applies to all employees, whether they have a disability or not.”

An ergonomic work position looks like this:

Furthermore, doing your work from a 13-inch laptop will make it harder to type and use the trackpad. Using peripherals such as an external keyboard and mouse will improve your ergonomic work and productivity.

What do I need to do to work from home?

If you expect to work from home for more than one day per week, you should set yourself up to be the most productive. The following peripherals will not break the bank and will increase your productivity significantly, especially if your employer will pay for them:

• Monitor: A monitor will help you work on documents and put your line of sight at the correct angle.
• Chair: Spending a third of your day in a chair means you need the right support and comfort to keep your back healthy. A height-adjustable chair allows your feet to rest flat on the floor or on a footrest, which is parallel to the floor.
• Bluetooth speaker with mic: This device will not only allow you to hear voice calls more clearly but also enable hands-free conversations without the need for a headset.
• Wireless Earbuds: If you have background noise, wireless earbuds will help isolate you from that noise and concentrate on the conversation.
• USB cables: They allow you to conveniently charge your smartphone or other wireless devices from your computer or charger at your workspace.
• Wireless charging: Wireless chargers simplify charging your compatible products by placing your smartphone on a pad or stand.
• Ethernet cable: An Ethernet cable allows you to hardwire your PC directly to your home network, ensuring the best connectivity for video calls with fewer dropouts.
• Webcam: Most laptop webcams have poor resolution or are positioned too low. An external webcam can be mounted higher to look down at a more flattering angle.
• USB Hub: Allows multiple USB devices to be attached to your PC with one cable. Some models also allow multiple displays, such as monitors via HDMI, USB-C, laptop charging, SD cards, and Ethernet cables, all connected via a single USB-C cable.
• Keyboard: Typing on a large keyboard with reasonable key travel and a number pad will significantly improve typing productivity. Some offer quick key functionality to reduce keystrokes.
• Mouse: Investing in a quality mouse will provide more precise movement control and additional function buttons for productivity.

How do I set myself up to be the most efficient WFH?

Having the right equipment is only part of being efficient when working from home. The following tips will help you succeed:

1. Dedicated workspace: Have a specific area in your home for work. This spot should be separate from relaxation areas like the lounge, ensuring a boundary between work and leisure. It also allows you to set up your ergonomic workstation.
2. Minimize digital distractions: Resist the urge to check social media or have a TV or radio in the background. This way, you can focus on your tasks.
3. Manage children and pets: While flexibility is great, set boundaries to balance your time with children or pets to maintain productivity.
4. Schedule household chores: Plan chores outside your work hours to prevent interference with your work timetable.
5. Set standard work hours: Agree on standard hours with your employer and adhere to them, ensuring availability and reliability.
6. Plan your day: Schedule your tasks to stay focused and know what needs to be achieved.
7. Maintain work-life balance: Avoid overworking beyond office hours to prevent burnout.
8. Communicate boundaries: Inform family and friends that although you're home, you're working and should not be disturbed.
9. Take breaks: Regular breaks are important. Incorporate exercise to refresh your mind, especially since you're moving less without a commute.
10. Stay connected: Maintain communication with colleagues. Collaboration and socialization are crucial for task completion, ::contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}