A Watched Pot Never Boils
J.A. Chiang
Head, FIR-ST? Corporate Ventures. Former EY Accounting Advisory Managing Partner. Storyteller, venture builder, creative problem solver, experienced "10th man", certified sake sommelier and digital growth advocate.
Working remotely gives rise to a whole host of new considerations around performance efficiencies, team morale, clear communication and even as simple as getting access to the right data in the office. There are many team management tools available, many of which are versions of GANNT charts on steroids. With Big Brother watching, the expectation is that performance efficiencies will increase and deadlines and targets can be met.
However working at home (WFH) doesn’t create linear predictable relationships. Many don’t have the take care of kids or elderly parents whilst physically in the office, which they will need to when WFH. A little extra time is needed to prepare and make meals, where previously many would buy them. Being restricted at home changes behaviours and perhaps you revert to your natural self of being a night bird, instead of a morning person, and so you shift your working hours without losing output capabilities.
Managing your teams with greater flexibility with more output-oriented management may empower the individual to adjust to this new world working style. Expecting everyone to follow the same standardized approach and working hours, with oversight for a team management tool or even ‘morning daily’ video rollcall of team members could have contrary effect.
A watched pot never boils.
Associate Partner | Assurance | Corporate Reporting Services | Mentor | Digital Enthusiast
4 年I personally expected the transitioning to WFH resulting in availing more time to me which would translate into less pressure and manageable deliverables. I am yet to notice that, if at all. What i notice is the challenge of managing the temptation of multitasking work and other home activities. The other thing, by transitioning from Working From Office i took for granted that its just me now working from home and did not put much effort into the ergonomics part.