As the tide begins to turn on the coronavirus pandemic and professionals prepare to return to the workplace, you might be considering ways that you can work outdoors. Indeed, getting some fresh air while you trash out your day’s responsibilities can be good fun, and if you do it with other colleagues it can serve as a team-bonding experience. Below, we’ve put together some advice on working outdoors safely and staying productive when doing so.
Avoid crowded spaces
Although you might be tempted to ditch the office and spend the day working in the local park, you’re probably not the only one with the same idea. Spending some time identifying relaxing, quiet places where you can work with your colleagues – it could be a quiet corner in the city centre or even a private garden. You want somewhere relaxing without too much noise and away from the road – the last thing you want is to be breathing in traffic fumes!
Buy an anti-glare laptop
If you’re going to be working in the sun, you’re going to need to invest in an anti-glare laptop so you can see your screen when you’re typing and carrying out your responsibilities. Most MacBooks now come with an anti-glare coating as standard, but you should do your research and consider investing in a new laptop or tablet if yours doesn’t have one. Squinting for eight hours is no fun and could, over time, even damage your eye health.
Invest in grounds maintenance
The best way to make the most of outdoor working in the warmer summer months is to do so from your own company grounds, which is why we recommend investing in facilities management services such as grounds maintenance. Having an attractive and functional space to work outdoors doesn’t have to cost the earth – if you’re on a budget, you can build your own makeshift outdoor desk and chair using wood pallets picked up from DIY stores.
Don’t forget sunscreen
If you are going to be sitting in the sun for eight hours, make sure you apply sunscreen at regular intervals. Even when the sun isn’t beaming down in your face, you’re still exposing yourself to harmful UV rays which, although will give you a tan, can also lead to skin cancer and speed up the ageing process. If you usually moisturize, switch out your current cream for one that contains SPF as standard; you’ll be protected without feeling greasy or clogged.
Stay well hydrated
Finally, make sure you’re staying well hydrated when you’re working outdoors. If you’re away from the office, you might need to pack a couple of bottles of water in your backpack for the day, or head to a local cafe where you can treat yourself to a smoothie at lunchtime. Better yet, find somewhere that offers free water bottle refills – you won’t have to spend a penny!
Do you have any advice? Let us know and check back soon for more tips and tricks.