How to Cope with an Increased Workload in London Offices Due to COVID-19
Coronavirus has brought many challenges throughout the last 6 months and with many people furloughed or sadly being made redundant, those left behind to ‘hold fort’ in London offices have been sometimes struggling to keep up. Are you taking on new tasks outside your role, working longer hours or have endless questions mounting up? – you are not alone and below are some tips to help you adapt to an ever-changing work environment during a crisis.
Time Management
As a Londoner time management would be no new concept to you. With only so many hours in a day and more work to complete, time management has never been so important. Learn to organise, prioritise and review. Write a list – get everything in that mental to-do list down on paper (or electronically) to ease your mind. Prioritise that list – you can only do one thing at any given time, so focus on the most important task and complete efficiently. Review your list regularly – has something become less urgent throughout the morning, or has something else popped up that needs your attention? Lists can give you a sense of achievement and control over what may seem an overwhelming situation.
Be adaptable and positive
You may be taking on tasks outside your usual role, but this is a perfect opportunity to learn something new! Ask yourself “what can I learn from this situation?”, or even “what can I bring to this situation?” – everyone has transferable skills and this is the time to flex them. By remaining positive about your work, you may find that opportunities for growth will appear sometimes when you least expect it.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
You cannot be expected to be an expert on a new situation within a day. It is better to ask a question early, than sit at your workspace trying to figure it out alone and slowing your whole day down. If you feel you are asking too many questions – use your knowledge and experience to think through possible solutions you can take to your superior for confirmation.
Take a break
If you find yourself becoming overwhelmed, take a break. Five minutes away from your desk; grabbing a coffee, going for a walk, taking some deep breaths (London’s air is feeling fresher than ever), will give you time to think and relieve built up stress and mind blocks. Remember – you can only do one thing at any time, so think about that one most important thing you can do when you get back and leave the rest behind.
Know you are not alone
The last 6 months has been challenging and uncertain for most people around the world and in London, know you are not alone in struggling with extra work commitments. We sometimes think we need to complete every task on time by working through until 11pm, but those in your team may be able to relate the most and help. Communicate to your business if someone adds another request, learn to ask for deadlines or urgency so you can prioritise or ask if someone else can assist you. We all need social interaction during these times, especially working from home – so reach out to your team, have a short conversation to lighten the mood and help each other through this difficult time.
If you are a candidate looking for your next temporary or permanent office support role in London or a client looking to move forward in hiring for a role, contact our team so we can help you with your search support@australasian.co.uk
Take care, stay safe and stay positive and we hope to see you soon!
Australasian Recruitment Company