Tale of Two Workers – Part 1

There’s a lot of discussion, debate, posts about how Work from Home is the face of the future.

I don’t agree.

I believe there will be more WFH than before, but office-based workers won’t be a thing of the past.

By way of example, I have two staff on interesting journeys. This is Part 1 – the story of Sam.

Sam is just a few years out of university, and works in a team of 10. He needs a bit of coaching on some of the more complex tasks in his job.

He enjoys the interaction of his colleagues, some of whom have become friends outside of work.

Unfortunately Sam wasn’t a strong performer, and was on the final stage of a Performance Improvement Plan. This stage looked destined to end in dismissal.

Then the pandemic arrived.

Sam has become a superstar. He is exceeding expectations. If his performance continues, he’s on track for promotion.

Why?

We have asked him.

Sam is easily distracted in a bustling office. The water cooler, across-the-desk and hallway conversations peak his interest. He struggles to focus, and his long daily commute doesn’t help.

If possible, we will maintain Sam as a home based worker, it’s a win-win situation.