Like many, Sebastian Raposa, owner of Tricked Media, landed in remote work by default. While searching for a conventional job in videography after college, he picked up some freelance assignments. Those gigs turned into a business that gives him flexibility to work from wherever he wants.

What are the advantages of remote work when you are doing videography?

I can work on a lot of different projects and I can do the work when I want to. I like to work odd hours. I prefer working really late at night rather than the middle of the day. There is a lot of noise throughout the day. I will work until 3 or 4 a.m. I like the quiet and I can really focus on what I need to get done. I like that flexibility.

What are the challenges of not having a regular office?

I don’t have colleagues right here, so there isn’t that typical social interaction. You can’t just turn around and talk about ideas.

It’s weird not having direct co-workers. There aren’t company events. For me, it’s okay. I like socializing and being the life of the party, but I’m okay on my own too. I do find, though, that it’s important to reach out and stay in touch with people.

How do you make up for not having colleagues in the office?

I rely on programs like Skype and Slack to stay connected with the people I’m working with. You can’t just stick to business. We take some time to talk about other things too like pop culture or the news. Developing that connection with people makes it easier to work together.

What is your advice to someone who wants to work remotely?

It takes a certain mentality. It’s definitely not for everyone. You have to have a strong work ethic because it will be your responsibility to get things done. You need to have a refined sense of discipline. And, you need to be able to manage a lot of things at once.

You also should also realize that while you may have the support of a home office, you will still need to be able to support yourself. You will need to take care of your own equipment and have your own backup systems.

Also, I think there’s more pressure to get the work done. When you are working remotely, your role on the team is clearly defined and visible. If you don’t get things done, it shows and it’s all on you.

Sebastian is doing a series of Tech Tips for Remote Workers. Here he shows how to add a search engine bookmark to save time and aggravation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kC4YXRDVPwk