Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started with this whole work-from-home thing, there’s no denying that having the right tools can make all the difference.
From video conferencing to project management, there are countless apps and services out there designed to help you stay productive, connected, and organized while working from your own digs. But with so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start.
That’s why from one remote worker to another, I have put together a list of the 20 best tools for working from home, so you can spend less time researching and more time getting things done.
1. Notion
Image source: Notion
I am not sponsored by Notion at all, so the fact that I suggest Notion to every person I meet has to do with the versatility and flexibility of Notion as a tool. Think of it as an organization tool that is entirely DIY. You can make Kanban boards, calenders, to-do lists, tables and connect a variety of databases all in one place.
An excellent tool for organizing your work and connecting with colleagues, Notion is a tool that I use every day at work. What’s more helpful is that if you don’t want to set things up from scratch, people on the internet can provide pre-made templates that you can add to your personal Notion board.
2. Trello
Image source: Trello
Let’s say you are not looking to create organization boards from scratch. You want a pre-build foundation that you can simply start working on right away. Trello allows you to do just that by providing you Kanban boards, to-do lists, notes and much more all under one tool.
While Trello provides free access to its basic features, you have the option to upgrade to a paid plan to access a diverse range of advanced features.
3. Calendly
Image source: Calendly
Say goodbye to days when you had to coordinate timings and set up meetings! Calendly might be the perfect tool for people who have many external clients, catch up calls, weekly or monthly check-ins and so on!
If you want to let your clients, colleagues, and connections to be the ones to get in touch with you whenever the need arises, Calendly is a great tool for that. By sharing your Calendly link, you can sit worry-free and have others schedule meetings with you. You can set your work hours, open slots and more.
4. Loom
Image source: Loom
The blessing of working remotely is that you can record meetings and instructions. No more getting stuck or forgetting how to use a software. Loom allows users to create video messages with recordings of your screen and your face.
With Loom, you can avoid the hassle of asking “Can you see my screen?” during a meeting and easily convey your message without any delay.
5. Shift
Image source: Shift
The absence of a built-in application for Gmail and Google Calendar is my greatest annoyance, as I am compelled to open them in a web browser every single time. While seeking a solution to this issue, I found Shift.
Shift is a browser for all your work related applications and websites. Operating as a centralized work space, you can add 50+ apps, websites and more all into Shift so that it is the only app you need when you open your laptop for work.
6. Pomofocus
Image source: Pomofocus
Every one has a unique approach to productivity and if you are looking for how to be more productive while working from home, Pomofocus just might be the tool for you.
Pomofocus is a time tracker that uses the pomodoro method for time management. Work is broken down into intervals with breaks in between, leading to better energy during work.
7. ChatGPT
Image source: ChatGPT
We now live in a chatGPT world and that comes with many advantages such as being able to get an answer to almost any question you want to ask on the internet.
ChatGPT is a great tool regardless of what you do at your job. Looking for ideas on how to create a good PowerPoint presentation or tips on how to write a good cover letter? ChatGPT can help with both and much more!
8. Krisp
Image source: Krisp
While doing research for this article, I found Krisp and this app to be so useful that I had to share it with you! For days when your cat won’t stop meowing in the background during their zoomies or when your kids are having a concert in the living room, Krisp is the tool you need!
Krisp cancels out any background noise during your work meetings and to test how good it is, you can do a test run! I don’t know about you, but I was surely impressed!
9. Toggl
Image source: Toggl
When working remotely, keeping track of your working hours can be important for several reasons. If you are a freelancer or a consultant, you can bill your clients accordingly. A corporate employee can track time simply to make sure they are working for the hours promised.
Toggl is a time tracking app that offers much more! It has an in-built pomodoro timer, and you can connect third party apps to track time on various office activities.
10. Miro
Image source: Miro
An online collaborative tool, Miro offers features such as creating mock-ups, brainstorming ideas with the team, using digital sticky notes and planning work flows using charts all on their white board.
You can invite your teammates and collaborate on projects, leave comments and feedback. So forget sharing screens and share your ideas directly using Miro instead!
Many of these tools are also my personal favourite and make remote work significantly easier! If you have any special tools that you use every day while working from home, let us know in the comments below!
To find out the best tips for landing a remote job in 2023, head over to this article! We talk about the application process, building useful skills and much more!
