Slack is a widely-used real-time communication tool in remote companies. We use it too at Automattic, and it’s our default app for communication. But the problem with Slack is it’s too noisy. Especially with the default settings. You can not go in a focused work time without getting a Slack notification to ruin it. Or the constant channels checking (Slack’s name for groups) due to … Continue reading How to stop Slack getting in your way when working

When you work as a freelancer on different projects, and with different clients, it makes sense to track the time you spend on each project. But what about remote work? Does it make sense to use time tracking too? For remote companies, or at least those implementing remote work right, time tracking isn’t used. As long as your output is good, no one wants to … Continue reading Time tracking when working remotely

If you are new to remote working or thinking of making the leap, you may think remote work is all extra savings. You aren’t spending much now that you’re working from home, you’re skipping the commute, etc. While this is true, there are also new expenses added to the equation. I’ll present to you the top savings and expenses you’ll see when working remotely. What … Continue reading The savings and extra expenses you should expect when working remotely

When it comes to remote working. There are a lot of companies out there. But when deciding to go remote, one should choose wisely. You don’t want a company using “remote working” as an excuse to make you work all day. Or a company monitoring all your moves… I have a list of the best companies I keep an eye on to learn more about … Continue reading The best companies you can work for remotely

In a remote working environment, communication is oxygen. But when the only medium of communication is text, things aren’t easy. But how can you communicate better in a remote work environment? Some tips you’ll find around are “over-communicate”, “async-communication”, “text first”… I find those not specific enough. What does “over-communicate” mean anyway? I’m not doing the same here. I’m giving you 3 things you can … Continue reading 3 things you can do TODAY to improve your communication when working remotely