Virtual workers are a hot topic, and for good reason: they allow companies to hire the best talent regardless of location. There was a great boom during the start of the COVID pandemic and it has just continuously risen, even as the world opened up again. 

But how do you stay successful as a virtual worker? In this guide, we’ll go over some basic principles that will help you be more successful as a virtual worker in 2023.

Use your plan

Before you start, make sure that you have a plan. It’s easy to get carried away with your work and forget about the big picture. If there isn’t a clear path in front of you, it can be difficult to stay on track with the tasks that need doing.

A simple way of keeping things organized is by creating an app-based task list like Todoist or Any.do—these apps are great for helping people manage their time more efficiently because they allow them to organize their ideas into lists instead of scattering them all over their desktop computer screen or mobile device. You can also use these platforms for sharing important documents with colleagues who don’t work remotely (like contracts). This way everyone knows what needs doing at any given time!

Don’t procrastinate

Procrastination is a habit you can break. The key to breaking it is to find a time management system that works for you and your work style. You can use an app like Todoist or Wunderlist, which are both great options for managing tasks and deadlines. Both apps have mobile interfaces so they’re easy to access on the go as well!

If you prefer pen and paper over technology, try using one of these planners.

Do your most important work when you’re at your peak alertness

When you are at your peak alertness, you can do the most important work. This is when you’re most productive, creative and efficient. It’s also when you’re most focused and relaxed. At this time of day, it’s perfectly normal for people to feel energized as well!

Take regular breaks

Taking regular breaks is an important part of working from home. It helps you stay focused on your work and gives you a chance to recharge, which is essential if you want to keep up with the demands of being a virtual worker.

If possible, try taking short walks throughout the day—even if they’re just around the block—or sit outside and enjoy some fresh air while listening to music or podcasts (or even watching birds fly). When we’re feeling tired at work, all it takes is five minutes away from our desk before we feel like getting back in there again.

Eliminate unnecessary visual and audible distractions

Focus on the task at hand by eliminating unnecessary visual and auditory distractions.

Turn off your phone and notifications. Turn off music playing on your computer or laptop. Use headphones for a more productive environment as well as for if you want to hear what is going on around you without being disturbed by external sounds (like someone talking). A screen protector can help prevent scratches, but also reduce glare from sunlight entering through windows in an office setting where screens are often visible from outside offices or cubicles when they’re not being used. A screen dimmer would be helpful if working late hours into the night when lights are already dimmed down low; it will allow users to adjust their brightness levels accordingly so their eyes aren’t strained while focusing on tasks at hand instead.

Get the support you need from your management

Understand your company’s policies and procedures and ask for help if you need it. Be clear about your expectations, such as how many hours of work per week you want to put in, where the work will be done (remote), what type of equipment is needed (laptop/desktop), etc. Be clear about availability: Are there any times that are off-limits during which you’re unavailable? If so, make sure everyone knows this ahead of time so they don’t accidentally schedule meetings with someone who can’t take part due to another commitment or appointment they’ve made in the meantime. Know exactly what goals you want to achieve by being a virtual worker—and stick with them!

Follow basic productivity and workplace principles

Even if you’re a virtual worker, you should still follow basic productivity and workplace principles.

First, being a virtual worker is not an excuse to be lazy. You still have to be accountable for your work and make sure that it’s done right. Second, even though there are no physical boundaries between employees in the office or at home workplaces (or in their bedrooms), it doesn’t mean that all of us can just slack off without any consequences. 

Stick to your plan

Planning is important. Start with a clear mission statement and goals for yourself as well as for your team, so that everyone knows what they’re doing and why they’re doing it.

Don’t change your plan, just because you’re working remotely. Don’t get distracted by other things. And don’t let other people’s plans distract you from your own plan.

Be part of a remote team

Joining a remote team can help you be more productive, enjoy your work more, and feel like you’re part of something that matters. When you feel all these things, you have higher chances of being a happier and better virtual worker in the next year.

Our more than 150 Remote Workmates can attest to finding fulfilling careers with us. Take a look at our listings and start the new year right with the perfect job.