Out the door: As the weather warms – eventually – more employees take their business outside

Spring is here, even if it doesn’t feel like it just yet. But it’s coming. And when warm temperatures become the norm, many work-from-home employees will set up camp outdoors, getting their work done in a spot that offers fresh air, sunlight and those occasional sounds of spring. Well, many will at least think about working outside but won’t actually pick up their laptops and hit the front porch.

But Joseph Araula, a Chicagolandbased financial manager, isn’t one of the thinkers; he’s one of the doers. “I can’t wait until it’s 70 degrees on a regular basis so I can work in my backyard,” says Araula. “Obviously you can’t work outside in the winter and the summer gets too hot but spring is perfect. Fall is OK but spring is the best. You feel like you’re coming out of your shell.”

And people working from home aren’t the only ones who can enjoy the outdoors. There are cubicle-bound workers who love stepping away from their regular spot to bask a bit in the sun. “It just puts me in a better mood,” says Tina Burke, who works in downtown Milwaukee. “Getting some fresh air and sunshine can completely change my day.”

Burke, a graphic designer, says working outdoors helps her tap into her creativity. “I have a great space in my office, but it’s nothing like working outside,” She says. “Sometimes I just go out there for an hour or so just to stimulate my brain.”

If you’d like to work outside this spring, here’s some advice to make the most of it:

Find a good spot:

“Sunlight is key but you want to have access to shade when you need it,” says Araula. “I have a clearing in my yard but there are trees on the perimeter so the spot’s perfect.” You can also look for comfortable outdoor spaces, like rooftop terraces, park benches or – mostly for office workers – cafés with outdoor seating.

Get connected: You need to have access to a strong, consistent internet connection. If you can’t find a good spot, consider investing in a portable Wi-Fi hot spot or tethering from your smartphone.

Beware of too much sun: Use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and wear a hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes. You should also consider setting up in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Create a comfortable workplace:

A comfortable chair is essential. You may think that outdoor bench or swing might be fun but you’ll tire of it within a couple of minutes. Get a cushion to sit on and a portable table or lap desk. If possible, make your outdoor space as ergonomically correct as possible.