The Covid period in Australia has seen more changes in the corporate world in just a few months than has happened in previous decades. From a corporate world that had firmly embraced the business as usual, 9-5, 5 days a week working model to a corporate world that had to get creative; implementing flexible, remote working policies in order to strike a balance between best health practices and productivity.
Many people have enjoyed the flexibility of this brave new world, but many have not. Now that Australia is beginning to open back up, it’s not surprising that people are starting to reflect upon their role, working arrangements, company and if they can’t wait to go back to the traditional working model , or if they’re not sure they want to.
So given that the last few months has really thrown the rule book out the window, how do you assess what you want from a post-covid working world?
1. Figure out what type of worker you are.
Everyone works best in different environments. For some, working from home for the last few months has seen them living the dream. Productivity has increased, they don’t miss the morning commute and are content with working through video conferencing where possible. They feel comfortable and fulfilled.
For others however, it’s been a living nightmare. Maybe there’s too many distractions at home, they miss the social aspect of the office or they are just someone who thrives in the structure that an office environment can provide. Whatever the reason, they want the corporate world to get back to normal stat.
Many companies will reassess their working policies even after all restrictions have been lifted and may continue to offer flexible working arrangements. Take some time to reflect on how you operate best and consider if this aligns with your current company, role and responsibilities.
2. How have your talents have been utilised?
There has been considerable shuffling around for many during Covid which has seem them learn new skills, have to cover areas that wouldn’t traditionally have been in their job description or perhaps feel completely underutilised as work has dried up.
If your role has changed and you’re not happy about it, take some time to consider what would help you feel fulfilled in your role. Do you need to align yourself with a company with stronger work pipelines, do want to drop some responsibilities or pick extra ones up? Can you see your current company being able to offer you these changes?
3. Who do you want to work for?
As can be expected, there has been a wide array of reactions from employers during Covid – do you feel like your employer handled it well and will continue to handle it well? Pressure situations tend to bring out the best and worst in people and companies. If you feel as though you have lost faith in the company you work for, maybe consider what type of employer would be a better fit.
4. Have your career goals changed?
In many ways, over the last few months, life has completely changed from what we recognised as normal so it’s not surprising that your goals and what you truly view as important might have changed along with it. Take some time to sit down and plan out what the next 6 months, year, 2 years, 5 years etc might look to you. It might be the same or it could be entirely different. Either way, it will help you figure out if your current role will help you achieve your aims.
5. Are you happy in your job?
An important question that doesn’t always have a straight forward answer. If the answer is yes, then by all means venture on. If you’re not sure or the answer is an easy no, then ask yourself why not. Is it something your employer can fix? If they can, then sit down with your manager asap to discuss your concerns and hopefully change will come. If you don’t think it’s within their power, then think about what would make you happy and how you might be able to get it.
Feel free to get in touch with one of the ALRA consultants to discuss your specific career concerns or requirements.