Work at Home Etiquette 
Five ways to work at home like a pro

Is your morning "commute" now just a trip down the stairs or across the hall? Has your kitchen become the company cafeteria?

If so, you're among the growing number of people who are now working from home. Thanks to technology, working from home has been a popular trend for many employees. Now, however, amidst COVID-19, it's become a way of life.

Though working from home offers valuable benefits like less commuting time and increased flexibility, it does require a high level of discipline, commitment, and adjustment. It also requires some basic etiquette to ensure a smooth transition for you, your co-workers, and your family members. Here are five tips to help you work at home like a pro:

1. Dress appropriately. One of the biggest benefits of working at home is that you are in a more casual environment and can dress accordingly. But being casual shouldn't mean wearing your pajamas to work or not combing your hair. Work-at-home experts say that dressing professionally will help maximize your productivity. Plus, you never know if someone will ask you to turn on your camera during a conference call.
2. Work in a quiet area. Some jobs may require you to be on the phone all day long. Others require you to do work that requires intense focus. Setting up your home office in a quiet area will keep you and your co-workers from noises and distractions that could be disruptive and impede productivity. It will also allow your family members to continue to do what they're used to doing.
3. Use the mute button. You know that mute button on your conference calls? Don't be afraid to use it. Muting yourself will keep you from distracting others with noises in your home, such as the washing machine or your barking dog. Not to mention it will help you and your family members maintain privacy.
4. Clean up your workspace. If you're setting up your home office, it's ideal to have a dedicated workspace separate from your living space and high-traffic areas. If you don't have separate space and need to work in common areas, such as your kitchen table, be sure to clean up your work at the end of the day. Your family members shouldn't have to eat dinner at your "desk."
5. Stay connected. Working at home may be required right now, but it is a privilege. The last thing you want to do is take advantage of it by not being available for work. Make sure you can be reached throughout the workday to ensure maximum productivity. If your job allows you to flex your hours and work at night, try to be respectful of the schedules of your co-workers, who may be off-the-clock when you work.

Mastering any skill requires hard work and discipline. If you follow these rules, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of working at home.