How do you grow your career working from home?
Q: I enjoy my job even though I have been in the same position for seven years. Earlier this year, a new manager was assigned to our department and working from home has been challenging in building a working relationship with him. I would like to grow my career, but I am not sure how to stand out working from home. Any suggestions would be helpful.
A: Working from home has created some new dynamics in the workplace, especially around communication issues. When you aren’t working in the same department close to other colleagues or your manager, dropping by to talk with them during breaks can create a slight disconnect.
Even though working from home has its advantages, it often takes more effort in communicating virtually while keeping up your work routine. With a new manager, it always helps to understand his management and communication style. For example, some managers prefer daily reports while others are satisfied with weekly meetings.
Growing your career while working from home can be done if you stay mindful of your manager’s priorities, and the needs of your department. Making a good impression starts with being a good contributor, consistently producing results and communicating effectively.
Here are five ways to grow your career working from home:
• Develop collaboration skills. Talk with team members and colleagues about different ways to accomplish goals. A significant aspect to career growth is participating in solving problems as a group, and seeing your colleagues not as competitors but ones who share common goals.
• Keep learning. Always look for ways to learn even if you work from home. You can find a mentor to talk with and build knowledge. Consider taking a certification course online that will benefit you and your employer. Employees who have a curious mindset tend to be motivated to ask good questions which often conveys interest in growing your career.
• Increase your communication skills. Learning how to communicate effectively using a variety of platforms, is a great way to generate positive attention. Be
Growing your career while working from home can be done if you stay mindful of your manager’s priorities, and the needs of your department.
aware of how well you follow-up with your manager, consider being proactive in letting them know when projects are completed. Instead of second guessing, ask for clarification if you are unsure.
• Develop resilience. Learn how to bounce back from setbacks without a negative attitude. Resilience is a skill that serves you well in an uncertain business market — plans can change quickly and being adaptable is appreciated.
• Ask for stretch assignments. Talk with your manager and ask to take on projects that help you learn new skills or volunteer to assist with projects.