I imagine that when some people hear “remote work,” the first thing that comes to their mind is the scene in the movie Risky Business with Tom Cruise in a button down shirt, underwear, and socks rocking to Bob Seger’s Old Time Rock and Roll song, lip syncing, and sliding across the room.
While the flexibility of working from any location sounds like loads of fun, let’s separate fact from fiction while we take a look at some top remote work myths.
MYTH 1:
Working remotely can be a big party (or incredibly lonely) for someone who writes code at home all day.
TRUTH:While you can definitely work from the comfort of their home in a button down short, underwear, and socks, you don’t need to work in total isolation.
Here are some ideas:
1. Be very active communicating with your team online. If you don’t work as part of a team, you can connect with other remote workers by joining online remote communities that can support you and share their experiences.
2. Alternatively work from a coffee shop, shared workplace, or library where you can meet other remote workers.
MYTH 2:
Remote work is typically for introverted software developers.
FACT:
Remote work is not limited to introverts, the same way learning how to program is not limited to introverted personalities. The main thing to look out for is knowing how to strike a balance between working remotely and engaging with people around you (online & offline).
Our top tips for engaging with a community:
- Attend networking events in your area.
- Spice up your free time by engaging in fun activities like joining a gym, football team, or a volunteer group. Seriously, don’t underestimate the power of joining local communities!
- Take classes to learn something new, even if it’s not related to software development.
MYTH 3:
Working remotely means working at your own convenience, regardless of deadlines.
FACT:
Working on projects without being physically monitored by your boss or client should not be an excuse to miss deadlines. You need to constantly work toward deadlines just like you would if you are working from a physical office. Therefore, your professionalism should not be affected by the physical location of your work.
Ways to stay on top of your tasks:
- Stay organized by prioritizing your tasks using time management apps or simply making a list with a pen and paper.
- Avoid distraction at all costs by identifying them and setting clear boundaries to manage them.
The beauty of remote work is this: with flexibility and proper time management, you can get good quality work done. You can also create time to do things you would usually be too exhausted to do after commuting to and from work.
What misconceptions did you have about remote software development before you started? Tell us in the comments below!
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