It’s fair to say that most of us are working from home more than we used to. Even if you split your time between your home desk and seeing your colleagues in the office.
Working from home certainly has its benefits (no commute, you’re near to the biscuit jar and you can wear your joggers!)
So, here are four things you can try to keep your communications, marketing, and PR skills fresh.
Buddy up virtually
Stay in touch ad buddy up! Not everything can be said using an email. A call, in person can be much better than lots of wordy or complicated emails.
Virtual ‘coffee dates’, lunchtime walk-and-talks, and regular touch-in meetings are all great ways to strengthen your relationships – within and outside of work – and to maintain good mental health.
Still not sure? Check out this useful 9 page toolkit with tips to find and build your community.
Your body language is important (even on Zoom!)
Like it or not, work video calls are here to stay. And with your head and shoulders being the only thing your clients and colleagues can see (well, that and a snazzy virtual background if you have one), it’s important you use your body language to your best advantage.
While on-screen, try to sit up straight rather than slouching, maintain eye contact with your camera, and nod regularly to show you’re listening. A reassuring smile can also signify you’re enthusiastic and engaged.
Embrace Strategic thinking and Problem-solving
Consider this: you spend A LOT of time writing website text by the exact deadline, your digital advertising campaign is ready to launch and you’ve coached your client for excellent media interviews. Everything is organised for a campaign to launch. Then there is a BIG mishap to solve and your hard work seems to unravel in front of your very eyes. Sigh! Once the dust has settled and things are calmer – consider taking the time to think about what you’ve learned from the experience, make a note, and consider what you would do differently in the future. There are always lessons to learn even in chaotic problem-solving times. This will motivate you to be resilient and focused to solve the same problem in the future.
Have fun and enjoy your day
It’s easy to be bogged down in the day-to-day task list but give yourself a break and take some time to have fun and be creative with a new brief, advert idea, or project. Try a different approach that is stimulating and inspiring to keep your creative exploits flourishing and show versatility. They often say that there’s no such thing as a silly idea so free your mind and see where your creativity takes you!
Want to know more?
Louise is a media, marketing and communications specialist with over 20 years experience working in TV, Radio, print and online media for BBC and Commercial brands, businesses, and services.
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