Cowork with your Partner without going crazy
Working from home has it’s pros and cons, when sharing that home workspace with a loved one – it can add a layer of complexity. Although the arrangement requires adjustments, it can still be a rewarding experience. If you’re in this situation or headed in that direction, here are a few tips to ease the transition.
Make a game plan
First identify each person’s needs and work style. One person might need a quiet workspace while the other person may prefer lots of natural light or a large desk space. Once you know what the needs are, you can plan how to set up equipment and the space to make it satisfactory for both. This can include separate desks, space for the required equipment (laptops, docking stations, monitors and keyboards). One suggestion is to have laptops that can be temporarily disconnected when needed. Communal equipment like printers can be set up outside the shared office area to avoid disrupting the other person.
Communication is critical when sharing an office space with a loved one, this can make the shared workspace more productive and pleasant. For example, expressing feelings about noise level or the office layout is important in ensuring respect.
Set Boundaries
Don’t make assumptions about you “home office” culture, it’s better to be clear and express what’s off limits, like papers or folders, even if your desk gets messy. Also share your preferences for how to manage interruptions, like using earphones or putting up a “do not disturb sign” on the door.
Using a shared calendar can help with staying on top of each other’s meetings or appointments to avoid conflicts. To stay connected, try taking breaks together even if working different shifts.
Deciding when the alarm goes off in the morning can be another way of respecting each other’s needs and boundaries. Talk about the most mutually beneficial wake up time and how many alarms will be set or how long you can snooze. Will one person be responsible for waking the other? Part of the conversation is also what each person’s morning routine like who will shower first, turn on the coffee etc.
Working together at home can be enjoyable and the newfound time together can be a way to take care of each other in ways that weren’t possible when commuting into the office.
Photo Credit: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cheerful-couple-discussing-business-issues-at-home-4308102/
