Working On The Go

The days of running a business primarily out of a traditional office are over. Most of us will find ourselves working on the go at some stage.

This flexibility is great in so many ways, making it possible to control our workday and create a more flexible lifestyle that works for us. But each new work setting can also bring with it a new set of challenges. Here are some ways to make the most of your time and get the best of your mobile workspace.

Protect your devices from theft

If you’re out and about, make sure you never leave your devices alone. If your laptop, tablet or phone is stolen, know how to get it back. Make sure that you’ve got a good security system in place. If that doesn’t work, you can always track down any stolen device with anti-theft software such as PREY or any other similar product of your choice. (Please Note: We do not endorse this or any other security product. You will need to further investigate products and their suitability).

Some 80% of your life is spent working. You want to have fun at home, why shouldn’t you have fun at work? – Richard Branson

Make sure you have internet access

Yes, it happens. The day you’re on a tight deadline and really need internet access, it’s not available. Always carry your fully charged and ready-to-go Mobile Wi-Fi device, sync or plug it in and you’re back.

Otherwise, make sure you know if there’s Wi-Fi available at your location and when all else fails, tether your smartphone to your laptop. Remember to always stay safe on public networks.

Effort and courage are not enough without purpose and direction. – JFK

Maximise your storage space

Anything can be used as extra storage when you’re on the go. Flash drives are as versatile as they are numerous. But if you need something urgently with a bit more space, remember to use any iPod or Smartphone available, you’ll find you probably have quite a bit of unused storage on your devices.

Make sure your devices are fully charged

While you might get lucky and find an available power outlet at the coffee shop or airport, always be prepared for the worst.

Sync your devices

It’s likely that you’ve got more than one computer you regularly use for work and moving from your home desktop to your on-the-go laptop or tablet should be as seamless as possible. Products such as Dropbox let you easily sync files between all of your devices. (Please Note: We do not endorse this or any other file hosting product. You will need to further investigate products and their suitability).

Try using a tablet instead of your laptop

Depending on what kind of work you are doing, carrying around your heavier laptop may not be necessary. Consider taking your slimmer and lighter tablet as it is more portable, longer battery life, probably faster and more secure than the laptop. You can always add a keyboard and stand if you prefer.

Be productive on the go

Whether you’re off to the local coffee shop or some other public spot, try to stay focused and get things done. You don’t want to waste your time and remember to always be a courteous customer.

Time is money. – Benjamin Franklin

Keep your on the go office organized

Don’t overburden yourself by carrying around unnecessary items. Narrow down the actual essentials and don’t carry things that aren’t of any use. Keep all your cables and charges coiled so they don’t tangle themselves or worse still, get damaged.