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 [Corporate Responsibility](/categories/corporate-responsibility)

 # Remote Togetherness. It’s Possible.

 

##### By Melanie Vodnick, director of corporate real estate and veteran remote worker, ScottsMiracle-Gro

 

 

 Apr 6, 2020 11:55 AM ET

  Campaign:  [Scotts Miracle-Gro | Community Enhancement](/news/campaign/scotts-miracle-gro-community-enhancement)  ![](https://3blcdn.com/styles/carousel_2x/s3/2026-08/wfh-newsroom_banner_-01_1786762271.jpg)

 

Regardless of what the dictionary says, working “remote” does not need to be distant, isolated or unrelated. In today’s hyper-connected world, we have more tools than ever to enable remoted togetherness––the ability for us to stay connected while working remote.

I’ve been working remote with ScottsMiracle-Gro for the past two and a half years. Prior to that, I worked remote for almost 15 years with my previous employer. In both cases, I started at the world headquarters and then moved and began working from home.

It’s been a journey for me, and I’ve learned a lot over the years. Here are my top six tips for working remote. I use the acronym R-E-M-O-T-E.

**R = Routine**

Establish a routine and make a determined effort to stick to it.

- Set a start and stop time.
- If you need a shower to feel human, get it done before you start your work day.
- Schedule lunch, time to workout, a dog walk, etc.

**E = Equip**

Equip yourself with the tools needed to be productive and healthy.

- Establish a designated work space. It can be makeshift or traditional but make it yours.
- Pay attention to [ergonomics](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/office-ergonomics/art-20046169). A comfortable work space keeps you feeling your best.
- Invest in a wireless headset, full size monitor and keyboard, and a good chair.

**M = Move**

Change positions often.

- Shift from sitting to standing.
- Take micro brakes and stretch your neck and shoulders.
- Walk around while on calls.

**O = Organize**

Make a plan for your day.

- Schedule calls and meetings and block out time for work.
- Use Google Tasks for follow-ups and action items.
- Take time and schedule breaks for lunch, a workout, dog walk, etc.

**T = Time**

Take time to connect.

- Ease into meetings and calls with some non-work chat. It’s a good time to catch up with colleagues before you dive into work.
- Be intentional about staying in touch with coworkers. Reach out to team members regularly to check in.
- Use technology. The video feature on [Google Hangouts](https://thegarden.myscotts.com/#/app/article_display/5638447062581248) or [Zoom ](https://zoom.us/)goes a long way in making you feel connected.

**E = Expectations**

Expect the unexpected.

- Your child will cry, your dog will bark.
- Technology will fail.
- Stay calm, take a deep breath and remember we’re all in the same situation. We’re in this together!

*Melanie has been working remote with ScottsMiracle-Gro for the past two and a half years, and prior to that, she worked remote for almost 15 years with a previous employer.*

[Learn more ](https://scottsmiraclegro.com/careers/our-culture/)about our culture at ScottsMiracle-Gro.



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 [![Scotts logo](/sites/default/files/Clients/ScottsLogo032519.png)](/profiles/scottsmiracle-gro)

 

 

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