Taking care of each other in times of crisis: here’s how Qualogy does it
Published on: Author: Shailendra Khemai Category: NewsWhen colleague Shailendra Khemai joined us in May 2020, the COVID-19 protocol had been in place for several months. He was asked to help facilitate a pleasant and safe working environment. In this story, he shares his experiences.
Shailendra has been strengthening our Infra department as a Junior Database Administrator since May 2020. He shares what the corona protocol looked like back then: “The first corona incidents happened in March, and from then on colleagues were allowed to work from home. In the second week of June, a complete lockdown was declared. I was then asked to help think of ways to facilitate working from home and at the office as effectively and safely as possible.”
Health and safety first
Shailendra explains what measures were taken at the time. “While everyone was working from home, a few colleagues and I set up our various departments in such a way that we could keep enough distance from each other. This was in preparation for when the restrictive measure would be eased. This also involved some cable management. Furthermore, we installed special air filters (HEPA) in every indoor area at Qualogy.”
Making agreements
Next, agreements were made. Shailendra says: “We agreed on the maximum number of people in the building (and per room), wearing a mask and disinfecting hands, door handles and equipment.”
How did employees respond? “Management took care of the communication to employees. Everyone understood and liked the fact that action was taken immediately. So that – if the measures allow - we can partly work at the office again. Working from home is not an ideal situation for everyone. That is also a tip for other organizations: establish ground rules, then it will be clear to everyone what is and isn’t allowed.”
Ensuring strong bonds
Management supported colleagues in optimizing their home office. Shailendra: “Not everyone’s house is equipped to work comfortably at home. Does someone need certain equipment or a back-up internet connection? Then Qualogy sorts it out straight away.”
Additionally, good remote communication is ensured so everyone feels heard and connected. For example, we have regularly received nice gifts as a thank you for our efforts during this time. And we regularly receive compliments on our work via video sessions. Working online has not created distance in our team, on the contrary. Our bonds are very strong here.”
Carrying on for customers
According to Shailendra, customers have noticed very little of our working-from-home situation. “The most important thing for us was that work for customers could continue in the same way. And that we also work via a secure connection, even from home. Fortunately, both went well; customers did not experience any inconvenience.”
Positive attitude
This past year, corona measures in Suriname have been eased and reinforced several times. The crisis is not over yet. How does Shailendra himself deal with the situation? Shailendra: “Whatever the challenge, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Times are definitely tough, for everyone in a different way. But with a positive attitude, we will get there. One thing I know for sure: it’s a learning period, in many ways.”
Tips for organizations
Finally, Shailendra would like to share some tips for organizations that are experiencing challenges in working from home. “Take a look behind the ‘protocol scenes’ of other organizations. Many organizations are quite willing to share their insights. And make sure the protocol is upheld by evaluating it with your employees. It’s also important not to lose track of social interactions with your employees. You literally see them less often, so it is especially important to ask them more often how they are doing.”
Want to know more?
Do you have questions after reading Shailendra’s story? Or would you like to know more about our services? Contact us at info_caribbean@qualogy.com.
