During Q4, we surveyed our current consultants working on J Curve projects to obtain an understanding of what they have experienced during the pandemic this year. Although many of these answers may not be surprising, we thought it would be beneficial to share the results and some helpful tips and tricks on how to manage the challenges of working during quarantine.
The biggest challenges consultants faced while working remotely were finding a good work/life balance, social isolation, client-related IT issues, and general anxiety about the impact of coronavirus on life. Additional challenges included internet connectivity at home, balancing childcare and remote learning with job workload, too many distractions at home, and challenges with the physical workspace. Some consultants expressed more specific challenges such as work taking longer remotely than in the office, lack of critical feedback and fear of returning to an office setting when others are not taking appropriate precautions.
To resolve these challenges, we asked consultants for any tips or tricks to overcome the obstacles they have faced this year. Here are their suggestions:
Finding a Good Work/Life Balance
- Having a separate or designated work space in your home. Ideally someplace where you can close the door and create real physical separation.
- Schedule time on your calendar for lunches, breaks, etc.
- Try to maintain a set daily schedule.
- Keep good communication on the status of your projects.
Avoiding Social Isolation
- Get outside: take walks, enjoy nature.
- Proactively schedule virtual meetings with coworkers.
- Proactively schedule virtual get-togethers with friends and family – coffee, happy hours, games, etc.
- Visit family/friends and work remotely. (Just make sure they have a good internet connection!)
Internet Connectivity at My Home
- Ask other employees for their workarounds.
- Upgrade home internet.
- Have patience!
While we have seen many challenges arise during this year, we have also seen some more positive aspects that have occurred as a result of working from home, no longer commuting to work, and other changes in lifestyle this year. Overwhelmingly, people have been able to spend more time with family, created a healthier lifestyle, and found ways to be more efficient with extra hours at home. Those who have been working during the pandemic said work was a nice distraction from everything else going on and were very thankful for having a job when many others did not.
We are hopeful that these tips and tricks will help you continue to move forward in overcoming your pandemic challenges. As we wrap up 2020, we hope that these challenges will soon fade into the background as we face new opportunities and undoubtedly conquer new challenges in the coming year. Please let us know how the J Curve team can help you during this time by emailing us at info@jcurvellc.com.
J Curve, LLC is a Strategic Partner of Atlanta’s premier accounting and finance recruiting firm, Homrich, Klein & Associates. Visit their website to learn more about our full-time accounting and finance opportunities and retained executive search services.
