The Covid-19 pandemic brought so many changes in the way people live. And one of the most significant changes you can see is the shift from office work to working from home.
Fortunately, many people are comfortable with the work-from-home setup and choose this arrangement over their previous ones. Thus, the increase in remote work is quite apparent. By the end of 2021, 32% of workers globally are expected to work remotely, a significant leap from 17% in 2019.
And because of this, working from home essentials, such as laptops and ergonomic chairs, are selling like hotcakes today. But what’s the most crucial thing remote workers need to work more efficiently from home? Here’s a list of the top five essentials you will need to make the work-from-home setup successful.
Computer or Laptop
One of the most essential tools for work is a computer or laptop. This device is necessary to perform specific tasks in the office and beyond.
Ideally, your device needs to have the following specs:
- Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5 and higher processor
- 8 GB Ram, or 16 GB if you deal with process-intensive tasks
- 500 GB HDD or SSD
- 1-2 GB video card for graphic and video-intensive work
Internet Connection
When you already have your device ready, the next thing you will need is a reliable internet connection. This is probably the most important requirement for remote work. After all, the internet allows you to do research online, communicate with your coworkers and employers, submit finished tasks, and more.
Working Space
The best place to work is a quiet spot where you can think and do your job efficiently. Thus, having a particular area dedicated to your tasks is necessary. But it doesn’t have to be a whole room that you can turn into an office.
A space or corner in your home can be your next workplace. And if you have family members around, you only need to move shelves or cabinets around your work area and turn them into walls. Then, you will have the privacy you need to work without disturbance.
Spacious Table
Another requirement for working from home is a spacious table enough to hold all the things you need. It should also be the right height for you to work comfortably. If possible, choose a table that you can adjust as necessary.
Ergonomic Chair
The demand for office chairs increased by 400% in August 2020 from its pre-Covid sales. Most office chairs are ergonomic, which boosts productivity while working. Ergonomic chairs provide posture support, improve blood circulation even while sitting for long hours, and prevent neck and back pain.
These are just some of the benefits you can get from using an ergonomic chair when working from home.
If you think about it, a reliable internet connection and a computer or laptop are the most important things you will need to work from home. Without these tools, a work-from-home setup would not be possible. But beyond the most basic needs, having the essential equipment to make your work more efficient is just as crucial. For example, a dedicated space, a working table, and an ergonomic chair will contribute significantly to working remotely.
So, make sure you have this equipment at home, and you’ll indeed find the transition from the workplace to home smooth and well worth it.
Author: Alison Lurie
