Work From Home Tips

The whole world is currently placed under quarantine due to COVID-19. Working from home is undoubtedly one the biggest blessing in such trying times for we do not need to leave the comfort and safety of our own homes thus preventing the virus from spreading and we have the means to provide for our family. But make no mistake, working from home is comparable to a two edge sword. It is a blessing, but it can turn into a curse once we let go of our professionalism and act complacent. We cannot deny that there are numerous distractions in the comfort of our home that can hamper our productivity, and once we all succumb to all those interruptions we can all say goodbye to efficiency. Since schools are also on lock down, online teaching is the most viable form of education. For online ESL teachers however, work from home is their second nature. They know the tricks of the trade and the name of the game. Now, the question is, are they complacent or compliant? Here are some questions that will determine if you are compliant to your company's work from home standards. 1. Do you have an area dedicated for online teaching? You may be teaching from home, with no immediate superior to check if you are in your classroom or following the protocol, but you are a professional ESL teacher. Dedicate an area in your house where you can work in peace and with zero distractions. DO NOT WORK in your living room, kitchen or any area of your house where people can be seen walking around or noisy family members can be heard by your students. Work as if your school superintendent is watching you. 2. Do you still wear appropriate clothing while conducting your lessons online? You are teaching online, your student can see you from your upper torso to the tip of your head. If you want to be seen as a professional teacher then look like one. Groom yourself before your class, dress appropriately and professionally. Remember, you are working from home, not hanging out with your friends. 3. Do you give your 100% attention to your lessons? One of the biggest set backs of working from home is the multitude of distractions; from family members talking to you to your bed inviting you for a quick nap. Do not give in. Be resilient and set some boundaries to your family members but most importantly, to yourself. Remind yourself that you are a working professional and that your student deserve no less than your 100% attention. If your answers to these questions are all 'yes'. Congratulations, you are compliant to your company's standard and you are providing excellent lessons. Keep it up! You may not be considered front liners but you are helping our future generations by providing quality lessons to young learners. And they are the future. Remember, to keep you and your family safe. Wash your hands regularly and follow the prescribe social distance. We will get through this. If we work together, we can flatten the curve. Written by: Lorry Virgo