As Covid-19 continues to keep us apart, most people by now are used to working in a home-based office environment whilst also trying to juggle parenthood.
Before Covid-19 (this is what life going forward is now going to be known as BC (Before Covid) and after), the prospect of working from home seemed idyllic… the reality that we find ourselves in now is very different; having to juggle work commitments – conference calls, online meetings etc and hectic family life simultaneously.
We are lucky to be able to work from home with minimal risk to our health
Having worked from home in a previous role a few years back (without children) this did not phase me but unfortunately, I have a new, tiny work colleague at home – and she is needier than any I have encountered before.
My husband – also now at home – and I have suddenly taken on new roles as lunch caterers, tv controller and general dogsbody and assistants to our mini-executive, all on top of our regular jobs. Every day feels like a Monday…
Of course, I’m not alone in the new normal of balancing ever-present kids with work; parents across the globe are tackling this issue, with sometimes hilarious results.
Just ask political science professor Robert Kelly, who created one of 2017’s most viral moments after his two young children floated into his office just as he was being interviewed live on BBC News television.
My new work colleague is Aoibhin, 2, who’s been working with me for the past 5 weeks. Her experience includes daily in-depth market research and knowledge of Paw Patrol. She also likes to “organise” (destruction is the only word for it) the house which she completes rapidly and with such enthusiasm. Like many other kids and I’m sure my team can testify to seeing her on some of my many conference calls she enjoys giving her input.
Whilst I understand it’s all very strange at the moment we need to be realistic and understand we are lucky to be able to work from home with minimal risk to our health.
In time I believe we will look back on this period and realise it was short in the greater scheme of things and you need to avoid putting undue pressure on yourself – or others – do what you can do. People at all levels throughout organisations around the world are busy adjusting to a new normal, including your own management. And while Sir Isaac Newton’s quarantine during the plague was undoubtedly more productive than yours, don’t give up!
So, if you do find yourself looking for work perhaps you can utilise some of your time and reach out to us. At PE Global we are lucky that we are actively recruiting for our clients across Ireland and the UK who are still able to operate. Visit our website www.peglobal.net for up-to-date vacancies or if you would like to discuss your career options please contact us on 021 -4297900 and we can refer you to the relevant consultant who are all working from home and can give you a call back at a suitable time.
So until all of this passes try to be patient, kind and understanding of the fact that the whole world is impacted and battling to get through. To all working-from-home parents remember just keeping your little executives alive and well each day is an accomplishment. And it should feel like it.
Recruitment Manager
Finally, if you’re looking for assistance in finding your dream construction staff or dream construction job. PE Global are here to help, so please get in touch or email queries@peglobal.net.
