The impact of COVID-19 has reached deeply into all of our lives and as the business owners of Technica Editorial, Jack and I have grappled with work-from-home plans as well as making sure all of our employees are able to create a clear, focused workspace. We’ve been fortunate to have had many of the technologies in place already, so the switch to remote working for all staff has been relatively painless. We will continue to build on pre-existing infrastructure, such as office chat groups, remote access to critical tools, and the fact that much knowledge work can be carried out remotely. Also, we are fortunate to have a very adaptable, creative staff.
Jack and I started Technica Editorial as freelance copy and production editors in a two-bedroom apartment, using one as a shared office. As many freelancers know, the fear of not being able to pay your rent bestows on you a work discipline akin to a superpower. We quickly learned to:
- Maintain a routine — start your day at the same time as a regular workday
- Create a workspace and make sure that the space remains tidy, organized, and cheerful — add a plant or move your workspace to a bright sunny spot
- Keep engaged with colleagues, whether it be work-related or conversational — we’re all going through a hard time right now, so check in with colleagues and share something that may help them deal/cope with any situational stresses (e.g., share pictures of your pets!)
- Maintain an exercise routine — a short, brisk walk always helps me decompress and refocus
It will be interesting to see how we face the challenges of this new reality of the virtual workplace. How our creativity kicks in and how we take care of our colleagues and neighbors. My hope is that when we do come back together, it will be a joyful reunion.
Stay well, keep sharing (especially pet pictures and funny stories), continue to order books from your local bookstore and takeout from local restaurants, as well as taking care of those who may be in need during these trying times.
We’ll get through this crisis just as we have others in the past — together.
