Try these tips for telecommuting

When you're running a small business, every aspect of the company is important, from the font on your business cards to how many Post-It Notes are available in the supply closet. The way everyone uses their time is critical to getting everything done. Some of your employees (and even you) may even work from home, which may come with added distractions. Try these tips for being productive while telecommuting: 

Use a cloud storage service
In order to do your work from home, you'll need to have access to all your documents when you're not in the office. A great way to ensure you will be able to do this is to use cloud storage devices like Google Drive or Dropbox. Simply log in to your Gmail or Dropbox account and you can organize, edit and share your files. You will be able to easily use these services on your home and work computers, as well as from a device like your phone or tablet when you are on-the-go. This way, you won't spend excess time trying to get into your email and document-storage accounts  – you can get to work right away.

Limit distractions
When working from home, it can be easy to fall prey to distraction and end up online shopping, visiting with a friend or paying more attention to your children than your work. It's important that these distractions not interfere with your work day. Be sure that members of your household and potential visitors realize you are working and cannot be disturbed. It's OK to take breaks and even go out for lunch with someone, but be sure you are taking care of everything you need to do. 

Make your own workspace
A great way to avoid distractions and help you get into the office mindset is to have your own workspace. In this area or room you will only spend time doing your work. When you enter the space, your family will know you are no longer available to them for a while, and this will help you focus. Set up everything you'll need in this place, such as a glass of water, your computer and charger as well as your cellphone. You may also consider bringing some headphones or a noise machine if the sounds of your home interrupt your concentration. 

Treat your time like you're in the office
You wouldn't take a 45-minute Netflix break at work, would you? Don't do this at home. Treat your work-from-home time as if you were at the office. Start the day by making a to-do list of your goals and tasks to accomplish by the end of the day and stick to it. If you need to have an appointment outside of your house, such as a trip to the dentist, try to schedule it at the beginning of the day or near 5 p.m. This keeps your focus on work after you take care of your errand or until you have to go and prevents you from being interrupted in the middle of the day.