AdNews brings the stories of those working from home (WFH) in the advertising and media industry during the coronavirus crisis.
Mary Evans is client executive at Kantar:
How are you dealing with the silence?
I live on my own, so it can definitely get a bit haunting sometimes. Often I put on a playlist throughout the day (complete with my bad singing!) or sometimes I can hear the birds that live near me which is always nice.
Having video calls with members from my teams is also something I really look forward to, as it lets me have at least some kind of human interaction!
What’s the upside?
Wearing slippers all day every day! That and being able to balance cooking and chores throughout the day rather than having to squeeze everything into the evenings or on weekends.
I think it has also shown us a new side to both team members and clients, as we often get to meet (sometimes unexpectedly!) children and pets throughout video calls. It has been a really nice reminder that everyone we’re talking with is in the same boat and at the end of the day we’re all doing as best we can.
The downside?
I really miss the casual conversations you have with people in the office. Whilst we have set up virtual tea breaks and survivor recaps, it can definitely be easier to lose that chit chat aspect of work.
There can also be an increased feeling of always needing to be contactable for your team or your clients – but we’ve been working really hard at limiting those expectations to how they would be in the office. We will always have timely, but reasonable, communication.
How are you using the commuting time saved?
I’m definitely having a longer sleep! I’m also able to go for a little walk and then enjoy my morning coffee away from my desk. It has made my mornings feel a bit longer which has been nice.
I am looking forward to being back in the office because …
I miss everyone! I’m looking forward to talking with people who I don’t necessarily work with all the time. And being able to celebrate small and big wins (professionally & personally) face to face – virtual cheers doesn’t quite have the same effect when the timing can be a bit delayed!
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