How to optimize for visibility when WFH

Working from home is fun, but let's be honest, staying on top of things with your manager and colleagues can get tricky. 

However, with the right steps, you can optimize your visibility and team connections that will ensure you’re not just working hard but working visibly as well, which can lead to more opportunities to climb the career ladder.

1. Communication is key: In a WFH setting, communication barriers can easily occur because of misunderstandings and the way to steer clear of them is transparency.

• Align with your manager and team

• Be upfront about any issues you encounter

• Utilize tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Jira to log your progress. 

• Have 1-1 meetings with your manager.

• Keep everyone updated regularly

2.  Be proactive: Sometimes taking things off your colleague’s plate can help you learn new things and build a rapport with that member; why not volunteer for new projects or tasks then. This shows your eagerness to go the extra mile. 

• Look for new projects or tasks that align with your skills or interests. 

• After meetings, follow up on key points or action items.

• Listen actively to your colleagues’ contributions and build on them.

3.  Brag (a little): It's a common misconception that simply doing your work will make your accomplishments visible, especially in a WFH setting it’s difficult. In reality, everyone is preoccupied with their own tasks. Showcasing your work by sharing wins and hitting milestones takes you further. Reports, presentations –  anything that highlights your achievements and the impact you're making.

• Focus on how your work has positively impacted the team or organization.

• Jot down the significant milestones you’ve reached, such as meeting project deadlines or exceeding targets.

• Whenever possible, quantify your achievements.

4. Feedback is your friend: Lack of in-person feedback can leave you uncertain about your performance. Then, it’s best to ask for regular feedback. It shows you're always looking to improve and keeps you on the same page as your team.

• Schedule a dedicated time for feedback sessions.

• Work on constructive feedback to address issues before they become major problems.

• When asking for feedback, be specific about what you want to know.

Working from home can indeed present challenges in maintaining visibility and connection with your team. Nonetheless, by adopting such actions, you can ensure you remain an integral and productive part of your organization.