Circular No 082/2020
Dated 31 Mar 2020
To Members of the Malaysian Bar and pupils in chambers
Tips for Working From Home
We refer to Bar Council Circular No 064/2020 entitled “
Law Practice Preparedness Plan: The Emergency Closure”.
The tips provided below will help Members and their staff maintain productivity as well as transition to going back to working in the office.
We hope Members will benefit from the tips below.
1. Daily Routine
Success is liking yourself, liking what you do and liking how you do it! - Maya Angelou
Get up early, shower, get dressed, and have breakfast. If listening to music or exercising is how you start the day, then go ahead and doit! Maintain your usual routine as much as possible. When you are ready to start the day, you will feel confident, motivated, and ready to work!
2. Home Workspace
The workspace doesn't have to be dull' the right ambience will help influence productivity!
If you don’t already have a dedicated workspace at home, find a “spot” that can accommodate your requirements. The workspace should be able to give you privacy control within your home. This will help if you plan to have a virtual meeting with clients and/or colleagues. Place your stationery supplies, gadgets or equipment, and documents within reach and have an impression of an office. Dedicate this workspace solely for work andnothing else. A good lighting will keep your energy charged, reduce eye strain, and helps you focus. You will also benefit from a comfortable chair as you will be sitting for long periods of time.
3. Working Hours
Take a break when you need it. Don't get easily distracted. Control your environment and your boundaries.
Working from home gives you flexibility to do other things and work during your best hours. With flexibility, comes the responsibility to ensure that you can commit to your designated working hours — and stick to them! Just ensure that you are available and responsive to your colleagues, staff or clients. Maintain focus by informing your family members that you are working and not to be disturbed. If you have pets, keep them away from the workspace.
4. Leverage Technology
Maintain compliance with the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 ("PDPA"), remember client-lawyer confidentiality and avoid saving documents on personal devices.
Nowadays, most people have computers, laptops, tablets, and/or smartphones. These devices have made
communication easier. As long as there is aninternet connection, everything is possible, anytime, anywhere. Schedule a virtual meeting by taking advantage of the applications available, eg WhatsApp video, Skype, Zoom, etc. If your office uses cloud computing and you are able to access documents offsite, do use it to maintain work efficiency.
5. Communicate
Communication is key to building a success relationship.
Don’t let social distancing virtually disconnect you from people at your firm or your clients. Cut down miscommunication about work instructions through emails, virtual meetings, telephone calls, and other means of communication. Schedule a weekly virtual team meeting to keep everyone up to date. Reach out to your law firm partner, colleagues, staff or clients about work, or even to just check in on one another. This way, you can balance your mental wellness during these stressful times.
If you have any questions or require assistance, please email the Professional Indemnity Insurance and Risk Management Department by email at pirm@malaysianbar.org.my or mysahra@malaysianbar.org.my.
Thank you.
Kuthubul Zaman b Hj Bukhari
Chairperson
Professional Indemnity Insurance Committee