Remote working: making it work for you
Across Sligo and the wider region, thousands of people have been asked to work from home to keep businesses afloat, while also trying to curb the spread of Covid-19.
We know that working from home can be challenging, but there are lots of great resources available that will help you to work at home as efficiently as possible.
Here’s our practical tips on working from home – and we are also providing details of possible tax relief that can boost your income.
Stick to a routine
Set yourself consistent hours as this will make it easier to get all your work done and for colleagues to get in touch with you. Try to choose a time when you are most productive and make sure you take your usual breaks.
Stay in touch
Check in with your work team, let them know what you are working on and keep the channels of communication open throughout your working day. You can keep in contact with your colleagues via phone, email or other online communication mediums. There are plenty of great options online, so do a bit of research and see which one would best suit you and your team.
Create a dedicated workspace
Set up a work space, preferably in a spare room that can be temporarily converted into an office, if possible. Having a dedicated workspace will help you to stay focused while at work and not feel as though ‘the office’ has taken over your whole house.
Claim tax relief
People working from home are eligible for Revenue’s e-worker relief – a tax relief on expenses which people may incur (such as heating, electricity and broadband) while working from home.
According to taxback.com, “Any claims made will need to be supported with evidence in the form of receipts and possibly a letter from your employer stating that you do, in fact, work
Get support when needed
We at the Sligo Chamber would love to help in any way that we can. You can get in touch with us by emailing info@sligochamber.ie or by calling 071 9161274.
Also, the Local Enterprise Office has many valuable online resources covering everything from business continuity vouchers to general business supports and advice for both employees and employers. Check out localenterprise.ie/response for more details.
The situation is fast changing here in Sligo and generally across the country, over the coming days it’s likely that businesses will be in this for the short to medium haul. But it is all doable, just make sure to stay connected and look for support when you need it.