Manisha joined Cloud Perspective at the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown in April, and we have been tracking her progress throughout these uncertain times. 6 months later we catch up with Manisha to find out how she’s getting on.
Looking back, how do you think your first 6 months of work, during the COVID-crisis, has potentially differed from starting a new job under “normal” circumstances?
“In terms of the work we do, operating in the cloud and with clients across the globe, I think my experience would have been very similar working from the office as it has been working from home.
\”Prior to the lockdown, there was already a large element of remote working at Cloud Perspective, with video conference meetings as the normal practice for working with clients on projects. The only difference would have been being able to interact more with the team in person. However, the team has been great at welcoming me to the company and I have got to know them all really well.”
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How have you found training remotely and essentially learning your new role without being in the office?
“I have always been quite an independent learner, so working from home has suited me quite well. I like being able to work through the training at my own pace without any pressure, but I am looking forward to going into the office with the team when I can.”
Do you feel you have been able to get to know the other members of your team well?
“Yes, I feel like I have. I think it’s something that happens naturally when you’re working on projects together. We had a socially-distanced meeting at the office last month. It was an interesting experience because even though it was my first time meeting the full team in person, I felt like I already knew them from the months of video calls.”
There is a lot of talk in the press about the negative impact of young people working remotely, in terms of the lack of social interaction. Do you agree with this or not, and why?
“I partly agree. I think it depends on the individual and what their life is like outside of work. One of the aspects of going into work every day is socialising with your team and working together on projects. So with that aspect missing and other lockdown restrictions in place, a person could become quite isolated.”
What has been the most positive aspect of your work so far?
“I’ve had the opportunity to work on some challenging but exciting projects from the get-go! I’ve learnt a lot in such a short space of time and it’s been nice to be able to make a valuable contribution to the team.”
Would you rather continue working remotely, full time in the office, or a split between the two and why?
“I think a split between the two would be a good balance. I find that working at home allows me to really focus and be productive, but I would also like to collaborate with my teammates on project work and continue getting to know them all. Plus there are some things that are just easier in person!”
Is there any advice you would give to other people starting a new remote working role?
“I would say try to keep some sort of routine so it feels like a workday and remember to take regular breaks.
“Also, remind yourself that this isn’t a normal situation so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it!”