AdNews brings the stories of those working from home (WFH) in the advertising and media industry during the coronavirus crisis.
Katie Molloy is general manager at The One Centre, Sydney.
How are you dealing with the silence?
Well, it’s not actually that silent here with an eight and ten year-old tearing around plus a small dog barking at their heels while I am presenting new strategies and ideas to help our clients pivot, adapt, survive and thrive in these radically changing times. At The One Centre we are lucky in that we are used to working with international clients, so Zoom was very much part of our working habits before now. We all miss the connection, the physical space, the impromptu banter and 4pm losing-it-with-laughter and dash for treats to give us a second wind, but we are also enjoying spending that one to two hours of travel time a day exercising, taking on hobbies or spending time with our families.
What’s the upside?
In a way it has made us connect even more than we used to, or in a more engaged way. In the office it’s easy to put your headphones on and get into the zone, but daily stand-ups, regular project check-ins and hooking up to share work has made us more focused with intent. We also have more time to collaborate on ideation and expand on what’s possible. I think we are all challenging ourselves more in a positive way.
The downside?
Eating too much! Our WhatsApp stream also contains regular updates on slipper and tracksuit purchases as well as who is drinking what on a Friday night. I miss our beautiful office, the space and amenities, the focus time and seeing my colleagues and clients face-to-face and sharing ideas and having discussions and really being able to see their reactions.
How are you using the commuting time saved?
Exercise, painting, spending time outdoors with my kids and I will soon be attempting to homeschool the kids too – just because working mothers need another role…
I am looking forward to being back in the office…
To be with the team, feel like an adult again, have some time away from my family (semi-joking) and feel like the sentiment is changing. I do believe this will change the way we work together forever. There is a great amount of trust and comradery that goes into working like this and it’s great for us to have gone through this. I think we will be more flexible in the way we work, with positive impacts.
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.