Covid-19 continued raging, many large technology companies such as Apple, Google, Microsoft, Facebook, Twitter, Amazon ... all allow employees to work remotely. However, for many people, this is not easy because of changing habits and a series of technological troubles.
Here are some important notes to prepare if you are about to work remotely.
Internet
You will not be able to work remotely without an Internet connection or a home network. In normal days, Wi-Fi in the house may be good, but when all members are at home and connected to the network, the transmission speed may be significantly reduced. Therefore, you need to check the package you are using, measure the actual Internet speed in the house and make the appropriate changes.
Most people work with laptops and connect to Wi-Fi. But if you want a stable Internet speed, you should connect via wired (Ethernet). Some newer laptops do not have a LAN connection, users need to buy additional cables for a few hundred to a million. You should also place the Wi-Fi transmitter near your desk if you want to make a stable connection.
Internet is the most important equipment for you to work remotely.
Security
A number of companies have set up security mechanisms for individual laptops to work remotely. It also means that the company has its own privacy policies, so you should contact the technical department before installing additional software on your device. A few small personal mistakes can cause the whole system to be hacked. This is completely possible. So always stay connected to the technical team in case of emergencies.
Software, hosting
Email and messaging apps are indispensable. However, you also have to use additional specialized online meeting software. Google has just granted free access to some of Hangouts Meet's upgraded features. Microsoft has also begun offering a 6-month free trial to advanced Microsoft Teams users. You must install the software the company uses and be familiar with the features of the application.
Many companies choose to store data in the cloud so that remote employees can access shared documents. If your company doesn't have its own storage system, you can use some free solutions from Google, Apple, Microsoft or Dropbox to store and share data.
Headset, monitor, camera
You will need a noise-canceling headset good enough to not miss important information in online meetings. To communicate online with everyone, you even need a headset with a microphone so people can hear you speak.
In parallel with the headset, you must ensure the webcam is ready to work. Most laptops come with a built-in camera, but if you use a desktop computer, you have to install a separate webcam. The webcams good enough for meeting needs cost from several hundred thousand.
Because of working from home, you should also pay attention to privacy in online meetings. Make sure audio and video recording devices are turned off when not in use. Remote work may be more effective if an additional monitor is installed to do more work at the same time.
Phone
The most important device is a smartphone. In the event of a flickering Internet or power outage, at least you will need your phone to notify everyone. In some cases, you can work directly on the smartphone. And remember to always fully charge backup power to use in emergencies.
Khuong Nha (according to WSJ)
