This generation of jobs is becoming less dependent on their workforce being tethered to a cubicle and more focused on work-life balance. This movement is gaining momentum with describing the workforce as Freelancers and Telecommuters that work remotely from anywhere except the office.

The first of any work from home job is to find a space in your home that you can associate work with. Preferably a spare empty bedroom or den. The intention is to find a neutral space that cannot be associated with entertainment and relaxation. A fully made bed looks very inviting when four hours into spreadsheets.

Here are a few home workspace essentials to get you started and on your new transition away from the office and into the remote world. So, grab your offices’ fake ficus and let’s go!

Standing Desk 

Obviously, a desk is a necessity for holding all your stuff and also for putting your feet up when compiling code. A standing desk is a perfect solution to getting off your gluteus maximus and staying active while still being engaged in your task. If two separate desks are not an option then HighTechDad has the perfect solution in his review of the Flexispot system. Smartwatch activity tracker approved any way you go!

Tall Rolling Chair

If you are going with a desk that can adjust, then you should definitely pick up a Tall Rolling Chair to match. Find one that works perfectly for your room and décor. Be careful when pushing away from your desk when fully raised, you might be seeing your room from a different perspective from the floor.

High-Speed Internet

You can do all the work you want and it won’t make a difference if you have broadband ISP with dial-up speeds to deliver it. Make sure you get a decent internet package from your ISP with equally great up and down speeds. Some form of communication is oftentimes required from your employers and laggy Skype and Webex calls can become too bothersome when sharing ideas. I personally favor anything at and over 50Mbs down and 10Mbs up.

Noise Canceling Headphones and Microphone

Video conference participants will thank you! Nothing is worse than trying to express your concerns with Victoria’s fourth entry in her spreadsheet when you have to repeat yourself, the meaning is lost and so is the message. Headphones and a separate microphone can also be a solution when you want full control over volumes. Wireless is always the better option for mobility and you don’t have to endure the struggles of your chair wheel catching your headphone cord.

Webcam

This is merely a suggestion as most modern laptops already contain a webcam. I am always concerned with a family member walking into the background whenever I do video conference calls. Recent searching brought me to the Logitech 4K Pro webcam. It has a  feature that allows you to remove the background and replace it with something more suitable than your wall of gaming posters! Totally not against having a wall of gaming memorabilia, just might distract your call participants when it’s your turn.

Microsoft Teams

Yes, that annoying pop up with a recent update to Windows 10 is actually fairly decent when trying to connect to colleagues and manage work. This is strictly based on what your company or employer recommends for your team.

Pomodoro Method Task Timer

If you find yourself distracted and having difficulty staying focused in your new work environment. A personal task timer may be the solution to keep you on target with productivity. A Pomodoro Method and a simple timer is a great way to establish time management skills.

Cloud Storage

Have you ever had a hard drive failure? Then you know the value of backing up your work and important documents. If your employer does not have any means then I would recommend cloud services like OneDrive, Dropbox, and Google Drive for an alternative. They both offer free versions for a trial basis with more space following a subscription.

Personal Smart Assistant Speaker

Have a lot of things on your mind and need to write them down? Grab a Smart Speaker assistant to help with organizing your day. Sync your device with your phone and computer to make voice memos and timers to keep you on track while staying focused. Both Amazon and Google have decent devices capable of helping you get it done.

As you progress throughout your career while being a telecommuter you will find what mix of devices and style suites you. Hopefully this list will aid you in the early transition to your new workspace for maximum comfort while maintaining productivity.