Working from Home

We are all currently operating in a time of uncertainty and strain as we try our very best to stop the spread of COVID-19 and reduce its impact. So, firstly, we want to commend you for your efforts. We know that many of you are not working in ideal work environments. As we mentioned in our last communication, we are here to help. Our on-site visits have been reduced, but we are working hard to remotely help clients set up home offices and secure access to files and necessary resources.

What are we dealing with?

Government of Canada: Coronavirus Disease – COVID-19

What are helpful communication tools?

There are many tools to choose from, but we have noticed that our clients are having much success using the following:

MICROSOFT TEAMS: Many of our clients have already taken advantage of Microsoft Office 365 and have access to Microsoft Teams.  This is a helpful tool for quick chats, team check-ins, video conferencing, screen sharing and more.

ZOOM: This is a free communication tool optimized for group conferencing and video chats. It is simple to use and has some fun filtering capabilities that make it a hit with younger users.

TechSoup US has also put out the following remote work resource guide for Not-for-Profits that lists additional tools and ideas.

Whatever tool you use, we recommend that you check in with your staff, colleagues, family, and friends. We have seen clients set up video coffee chats with their staff, schedule group lunchtime conferencing, establish non-work related group chats, and many more creative ideas to keep in touch. If you need assistance or training using a remote communication tool, please feel free to reach out to us.

Advice for Working from Home:

• Create a workspace: separate your “work” time/space from your “home” time/space, so you – and those around you – know when you are working and when you are available.
• Take breaks: breaks from your work AND from the news are important to avoid information overload.
• Be active: schedule time to exercise and to get outside (remembering to practice social distancing at all times).
• Connect: use communication tools to interact with others professionally and personally. Talk about any concerns or stresses you may have.
• Set a schedule: make a routine and communicate your “on” and “off” times to your colleagues to ensure a work-life balance.
• Be flexible and give yourself grace: this is a new time for everybody. It will take time to set up your remote office in a way that works for you. If you have young kids at home, your productivity will decline and that is going to have to be okay. We are all working in unique circumstances.

Stay healthy:

Remember to continue to follow the recommendations of the World Health Organization:

• Wash your hands frequently
• Maintain social distancing
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth
• Practice respiratory hygiene (cover your mouth with your sleeve for coughs and sneezes, dispose of tissues immediately after use)

Contact PeaceWorks:

If you need assistance, please contact the PeaceWorks Helpdesk by email: helpdesk@peaceworks.ca or by phone: 1-888-817-3048, option 1; or feel free to reach out to a technical support representative or account manager.