Managing Your Job during a Pandemic
By: Ayesha Tariq
Tags: Life Lessons, Work, Pandemic, Career Advice, Careers

Photo by Magnet.me on Unsplash

We’re all struggling to find our way during this pandemic. No one knows the right answers.

I’m not going to sit here and pretend like I know the best way to get through this either. But, we’re all learning along the way. I’ve learned that there are a few things that you could be doing to help your situation at work. There are things that you should avoid doing as well.

The world economy is in turmoil. Almost every single industry and country has been hit badly. Employers are struggling to keep up with costs and employees seem to be the first cost-cutting measure on their minds.

For those fortunate to still have a job, here are some ways to navigate your job during the pandemic.

Maintain a Positive Attitude

This pandemic is an equal opportunity pandemic. It’s not as if some people are less affected. So granted, you may be feeling out of sorts but, so is the next guy. Constant complaining can only make matters worse. It’s ok to vent your frustrations somewhat but, no one likes a sourpuss.

We’re six months in, and there’s no reason to keep hammering on the same issues over and over again. Chin up and try to be positive.

Don’t blame your employer if they’re not responding to the situation as efficiently as you would hope. There’s confusion everywhere, even at the topmost levels. Most CEOs are stumped with what to do next, and don’t forget they’re facing the added pressure of severe revenue drops.

Businesses are under immense pressure to reinvent themselves. This is the perfect time for you to fit into that strategy and show that you want to be part of that bold vision.

On Working Remotely

For most employees who are used to being office-bound, working from home is a novel concept. It was very exciting at first but, gradually people started to realize that lost productivity, inability to focus, having the kids at home and so many other issues are taking the fun out of it.

Working from home is still working.

There are two kind of WFH employees — the ones that forget what time it is and have no time limit on their work. And the second, who think it’s a paid vacation. There are obviously varying degrees of each in between.

The bottom line for office workers is, working from home is a pain in the ass.

Be that as it may, we still need to learn to adjust to the reality, whether it’s temporary or not. So, let’s not fret about what the employer is doing about making your WFH experience comfortable. Focus on rather on what you should be doing.

Fortunately, I’ve had years of experience working in remote branch offices without my boss’ direct supervision. I learned to manage the balance between my boss thinking I’m goofing off and contacting my boss every hour just to prove I’m on top of things.

It’s true, out of sight is out of mind. But this where you should take initiative.

Be involved in projects and take the lead on getting things done. You’re going to have to work harder because it’s usually more challenging to prove you’re working when you’re not in the office looking busy.

Find a way that works for your team and your boss without constantly wanting to jump on a zoom call.

Keep Up the Water Cooler Conversations

Even if you’re seeing your coworkers on Zoom, it’s still important to have one-to-one conversation with people in your team or people you’re normally close to. I know ordinarily you wouldn’t be calling your coworkers to chat from home. But, the situation is different now.

I don’t mean you should gossip but enquiring after a person’s family or wellbeing are good topics to discuss.

Everyone’s feeling a certain level of anxiety. Some level of personal interaction with coworkers even over the phone could be healthy and everyone needs the support.

Upskill Yourself and Build a Second Income Stream

With the uncertainty hitting the economy right now, you never know what happens to your job. Your once secure, steady salary could be in jeopardy. Hopefully, you’re lucky enough to keep your job but, you may see your salary slashed or even your benefits gone.

This is the best time for you to be thinking about building a second income stream.

Working from home means you more flexibility with your time. There’s no commute time and less physical fatigue from staying out all day. This is a good opportunity for you to find an hour or two to learn a new skill.

You could think about a new skill that could mean a promotion at work, or a new skill to build a steady second income stream.

Cater to Your Mental Health

I don’t need to tell you that this is a stressful time for all of us. Keeping a positive attitude is easier said than done. If we are to make it through this time, we need to take time to cater to our mental health, whether it’s pursuing a hobby or simply taking a long bubble bath.

We need to find an outlet for this anxiety and paranoia. Limit your daily news intake, stop looking at the stats and focus on yourself and your family.

I know there are a lot of people out there who are looking toward their employer to make these times less stressful. You probably won’t always get the solution you’re looking for so, you need to help yourself.