I started a new job four months ago to join a start-up group within a big organization. The great thing about this job is that it’s a permanently remote position — a very good thing with COVID-19 still around.
In my past jobs, I had the privilege to work from home whenever I wanted to. However, I’ve never started a new job completely remotely with no physical in person interactions. Everything is done via voice (but not video) conferencing.
(Let’s just say I am glad that my team is not into video conferencing.)
I knew this new job would be very challenging and demanding. That’s exactly why I wanted to take on this job offer. But the first month on the job was more stressful than I expected. Our group recently launched a world-wide initiative. Everyone is scrambling to keep the wheel turning while there are new deliverables added on daily basis.
My new boss and some colleagues have been working on this program for months and they assumed I was ready since the very first week and that I already understood what was going on. The reality is that they were too busy, and so they didn’t have time to onboard and get me up to speed on anything. And there was no written documentation that I could read about what my job responsibilities are, let alone about any specific instructions. The only way to learn the job was through the trial and error.
To be honest, those first weeks were probably the most stressful time of my career life. I constantly had nightmares about not doing well on the job. For months, I couldn’t even relax on the weekends.
It took me over two months to finally got a hang of it. Looking back, I am very proud of myself for what I accomplished. I am also grateful that my boss took a chance on me and hired me for the job.
When I think about the time when I first started the job, I have a list of lessons learned.
One, never be embarrassed about asking questions to clarify an action item.
Earlier on in my career while I worked in a software training company, we taught all the new software engineers to always ask questions to clarify any questions they might have. Asking questions do not make you seem weak — it’s a sign of strength.
Two, take some time to gather your thoughts when you are being put on spot to answer a question in a group conference call.
In my opinion, when you are in a in-person conversation, your facial expression or hand gestures are enough to show the other party that you are processing the questions. But this could be very challenging over voice conferencing. Don’t cave in to provide something you are not sure about.
Third, try to take mini-breaks and a lunch break; step away from the computer.
For me, this is the hardest thing to do. We are so busy and heads down on work and meetings every day. It’s hard to step away. Since I am working from home, I can’t shake the feeling of being obligated and available when someone or my boss pings me for a question.
Four, stop worrying about the job as long as you put your best effort into it.
It took me months to finally learn how to relax since I started this new job. I was letting the job get the best of me instead letting it be part of my life.
In my opinion, working remotely has many perks, but it’s important to have a balanced life with work. After all, we only live once and we need to enjoy what we do.
