Huseby Inc. Court Reporting Blog | Nationwide Court Reporters

It takes a special type of person to be able to successfully work from home. Many of our court reporters do it every day. This is something we have discussed before on our court reporter blog. While it has its advantages and disadvantages, time management skills and self-discipline are absolutely necessary in order to make it work for the firm, court stenographer and client.

Seclusion

Set up an office in a quiet place with a door and no distractions. When it is time to work, no one else should be in that room. During non-working hours, recreational activities should not be allowed in the work space to avoid misplacing things or breaking equipment.

No Time For TV

Television junkies might try working in a room without a clock. Focusing strictly on work, you won’t be tempted to quit when it’s time for that favorite talk show to come on. Hide the clock display on your computer and work until you can’t do any more.

Office Hours

For those who need a little structure, set a specific time to “report to work” when there is no job scheduled. Use a timer or alarm clock to signify lunchtime or when you must leave for a late morning or afternoon job assignment.

Working Parents

Producing transcripts during a child’s nap time or after the baby has been put down to bed leaves enough time for family and business. Create a schedule around other grown-ups that can supervise or spend time with older children while you are in the other room working.

Absentee Boss

Some people need to be kept on task by others. If you are not a self-starter and need help getting motivated, try finding a court reporting agency that has office space and required hours to keep you honest. The more you work, the more money you will make.

Separation

Sometimes transcripts are calling, even when it’s time to relax and spend time with your family or you should be in bed. Allowing work to consume all of your time will eventually cause burn-out and create unnecessary tension.

No Calls

The telephone can be the most disruptive part of working at home. Many reporters use caller ID or screen calls with an answering machine to avoid telemarketers, well-meaning friends or bored family members. Otherwise, the day may be filled with back-to-back phone calls and no work accomplished.