Motherhood 101: How to stay professional as a work-at-home-mom

Get up, get dressed!

The two-minute commute is a dream many have. Especially, when trying to cross the Shockoe Valley bridge at 8:53am on a Monday. There are several benefits to telecommuting, but a lot of the time raising kids while working from home just simply requires discipline. Here are some tips, developed through trial and error, to help you survive the most important balancing act you may face.

1. Get up, get dressed. Fight the temptation to work in your pajamas. Start your workday at home as one at the office. That doesn't mean dressing to the nines, but consider doing your hair, makeup and looking nice. It boosts your mood and self-image when you take yourself seriously, even if your workday simply involved answering emails.

2. Build a routine. Routines are very important to children, especially babies. Regular nap and meal times promote growth and security. Eat lunch with your kids. Take the time to talk, play and get away from the computer, PDA, IM and cell phone. Investing in your kids will pay off with a more disciplined workday.

3. Reach out. Stay involved in professional organizations. Check out the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce for mixer dates where you may find new clients or opportunities. If you telecommute for a local firm, be sure to show your face in the office occasionally. If you freelance or work for yourself, find a place to volunteer in the community. Use Virginia 2-1-1 to look for volunteer opportunities in your neighborhood. Volunteering is a terrific way to network, get out of the house and build your business and self-esteem. Perhaps, more important, you will set an meaningful example of for your kids. 

4. Advance your credentials. Working from home can isolate you from the opportunities your peers may have. Look into online courses, or weekend workshops to boost your credentials and stay current. Offer to speak at a local women's group on your business or skills. Join a professional association to enable and support you professionally. You'll build credibility, expand  your talents and find the opportunities that help you work the schedule that suits you and your kids.

5. Set aside distractions. Multi-tasking has its place, and is one of a mother's strongest traits. But don't negate the importance of focus. Don't let housework distract you. That pile of laundry will still be there after work.

Schedule important phone calls when the kids are occupied or asleep.

Don't procrastinate.

Do attend to problems with the kids. Yes, you'd do this anyway because you're mom, but doing so quickly will help nip any bigger distractions in the bud. Calling the plumber to pull the cat out of the toilet can put a damper on your to-do list. 

Your input: Please share your strategies on working from home. I'd like to include other Richmond moms' ideas in my follow-up article: When timelines, deadlines and nap times collide. Write to me at: kristenschnurman@gmail.com