Online Design & Multimedia Jobs

Navigating Challenges: Remote Work in Online Design

While remote work offers many benefits, it does come with unique challenges.

Here are some common ones that come with shifting to online design & multimedia jobs:

Communication Hurdles

A common challenge many designers face, particularly when starting, is communication troubles.

These come in several forms:

• Misunderstandings: It can be challenging to interpret the meaning of your client’s or co-worker’s messages without non-verbal cues like tone or facial expressions. This can cause you to misinterpret instructions, feedback, or deadlines.
• Delayed Responses: Depending on your work setup, your client or co-workers may not be able to respond in real-time to your messages due to time zone differences, leading to delayed responses and hindering your productivity.
• Difficulty Conveying Complex Ideas: It can be challenging to express abstract concepts and ideas to your clients within the limits of emails or instant chats.
• Other Technical Challenges: Remote communication is vulnerable to technical problems like sudden internet loss, audio or video glitches, or compatibility issues between communication apps and one’s hardware.

To address these problems, here are some tips you can follow:

• Schedule Regular Check-ins: Setting regular meetings with your client and co-workers allows you to communicate synchronously to discuss progress updates and resolve any issues impeding your work.
• Encourage Video or Voice Calls: Instead of relying on written communication, you can hold video or voice calls to facilitate transparent communication and avoid misunderstandings.
• Use Visual Aids: Using diagrams or sketches helps break down complex or unfamiliar concepts to your client and co-workers.
• Double-check your Equipment Before Each Call: Keep your virtual communication apps updated to avoid bugs, and make sure your camera and microphone function as they should. 
• Establish Expectations: Set clear expectations regarding your turnaround time and availability from the get-go.

Maintaining Productivity

Another downside of an online work from home setup is it can be hard to focus on your tasks.

Aside from the various distractions at home, you must also deal with the lack of structure and feelings of isolation that could sap your motivation and cause creative blocks.

Fortunately, there are many ways to overcome these challenges. Here are some of them:

• Establish a Dedicated Workstation: Creating a separate workspace minimizes distractions while improving your focus and productivity. Equip your workspace with ergonomic furniture and good lighting -and keep it separate from common areas at home.
• Set Boundaries: Establishing boundaries with your client around your work schedule helps prevent burnout and preserve your work-life balance.
• Create and Maintain a Steady Routine: A consistent schedule provides you with structure and helps you focus on your tasks.
• Practice Self-Care: Taking regular breaks and practicing mindfulness helps reduce stress and boosts creativity. Additionally, engaging in activities like exercising, relaxation exercises, and practicing your hobbies helps recharge your energy and preserve your mental health.
• Minimize Distractions: Turning off any non-work-related notifications on your phone during work hours helps you focus better.
• Set Realistic Goals: Break down a daunting task into smaller, more manageable chunks and prioritize tasks based on urgency to maximize efficiency.

Building Trust With Clients

Establishing trust with your clients is vital to any remote career and maintaining your reputation in the industry. 

After all, no matter how much you fit the requirements for a particular role, you’ll struggle to find a job if you don’t have glowing recommendations from previous clients.

How can you build trust with your clients? Here are some pointers:

• Communicate Clearly and Promptly: Replying to your clients promptly and honestly helps maintain transparency and keep them informed of your progress.
• Set Realistic Expectations: Being honest about your turnaround time and limitations helps avoid future misunderstandings.
• Deliver High-Quality Work: Consistently delivering output that meets or exceeds your client’s expectations will always put you in good stead.
• Honor Deadlines and Commitments: Regularly delivering your work within the agreed-upon deadline helps you build trust with your clients. If delays and unforeseen circumstances arise, message them immediately to make necessary adjustments or find an appropriate solution.
• Regularly Seek Feedback: Another way to earn your client’s trust is by soliciting feedback. Doing so demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement and client satisfaction.