Working productively amid a global pandemic is difficult for multiple reasons. Between obvious health concerns and the strain on our economy, we can easily feel stressed which translates into work performance.

Here are some workplace solutions that will help you optimize your work routine and help you be an effective worker throughout these next few weeks of uncertainty.

Optimize Your Work from Home Space

Many people are working and managing teams remotely right now. This can be a difficult transition for some, but optimizing your workspace is a great step in the right direction. This will put you in the right position to take advantage of even more workplace solutions.

If you have not already done so, set up an area that is dedicated solely to your workstation. This will help you to get into the right headspace and avoid distractions during the workday.

Look into Support Options

This can mean a multitude of things because support is essential in many ways right now. Before you even get to traditional workplace solutions, you must consider your mental and emotional state. (This does affect your productivity, as well.)

From a mental health and self-care standpoint, things like therapy sessions and fitness classes may seem out of reach because of social distancing guidelines and measures. However, many organizations are offering alternatives. Your therapist could be offering phone sessions and fitness companies like Peloton are providing free or discount classes specifically for you to do in your home. Look into the services you need and see what your options are. This will help you focus when it is time to work.

From a more traditional business perspective, federal and local legislation has been passed to provide financial aid in this time. There are opportunities for both individuals and businesses to get financial support, so investigate your personal and professional options by staying up to date on these bills.

Ramp Up Communication

Communication is key right now, especially because if you’re remote, you aren’t seeing anyone in person. Make sure your team is having regular calls and video chats to ensure everyone is unified in their goals and strategies. This will all make you more effective and successful even while dealing with the uncertain environment created by COVID-19.

Focus Efforts Using Data

We know that programs like Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams are helping us to stay in touch, stay productive, and stay sane. However, this is not the only useful technology right now. Many of us have had to switch up our business strategies because of coronavirus. The most practical way to do this is with data and analytics. Use insights to revisit and amplify projects with historically high ROI and minimize high-cost/low-return endeavors. This will mean something different for every branch of business, but data is helpful across the board.

Take Breaks

This is an exhausting time. Many of us feel pressure to perform but are consistently distracted by current events. As such, breaks are essential. It may seem like a basic workplace solution, but it is more key than you may think.

As we know, flattening the curve of coronavirus cases will draw out the recovery process. Even so, it is essential to do so because it will be beneficial for the health and safety of us all. Similarly, you will want to take breaks even if it makes your workday longer. In the long run, your work will be higher quality and have fewer errors if you take the appropriate measures.

For more helpful advice to help you work through the coronavirus climate, please browse our advice section.