Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help

Mayank Rautela | Answer |Ask -Follow

HR Expert - Answered on Feb 24, 2021

Mayank Rautela is the group chief human resources officer at Apollo Hospitals.
A management graduate from the Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies with a master's degree in labour laws from Pune University, Rautela has over 20 years of experience in general management, strategic human resources, global mergers and integrations and change management.... more

Question by Sunita on Feb 24, 2021Hindi

Hello Sir,
Many people seem to enjoy this new work from home routine but I find it very difficult.
My name is Sunita, I am 32 and have two young children.
I work for a small company.
Earlier, when we went to office, work ended when we left the office unless there was an emergency. But now, work does not end.
Work output has increased but the boss is not trusting that we are working.
Our salary has been cut so financially too it is difficult.
How do we deal with all this stress? Getting a new job is not easy now.
Thank you for your help.
Sunita

Ans:

Hi Sunita.

The best way to manage the stress is to consider yourself fortunate that your organisation has continued with your employment.

I’m sure you understand that the current economic scenario has not yet picked up and the job market is tough.

As far as your manager is concerned, set clear expectations with her/him at the beginning of the week/day.

Send her/him your task list and then an update at the end of the day/week.

Communicate through email so that it is well documented and there is no ambiguity.

You can also do some breathing exercises and ensure your diet is healthy to manage your stress levels.

CareerReply

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Mayank Rautela | Answer |Ask -Follow

HR Expert - Answered on May 18, 2022

Question by Anonymous - May 18, 2022Hindi

Dear Mayank Sir, I am facing a difficult problem both personally and professionally. Last year, I took the decision to move back home, which is in a small town, because both my parents had survived COVID but have been facing major health issues since then. I am their only child. As a result, I had to leave a job where my prospects were very good and I was enjoying my work very much. Also, I was living in a big city, independent of my parents whom I love very much. It is a struggle to be back at home with them. They still treat me like a small child with advice and questions at every step. Workwise too, the job is a huge stepdown and the money, though decent, is less that what I used to earn. Responsibilities and challenges, which I used to enjoy, are less too. I have to stay here for one more year at least before I can make plans to move out again. The stress from home is spilling out at my job and the irritation at work is spilling out at home. How do I handle this? Am going crazy. Please help.

Ans:

Hi.

I appreciate the fact that you sacrificed your job to take care of your parents.

Ideally, you should go back to a larger city and restart your career. I am sure your past employer would be open to taking you back.

If that is not possible, then you need to have a candid discussion with your parents and make them understand that their constant involvement in your life is not acceptable.

They may be doing it out of love but, since it is negatively impacting you, they need to give you space.

Please don’t change your job in your hometown as that will further complicate your situation.

Career

Mayank Rautela | Answer |Ask -Follow

HR Expert - Answered on Aug 17, 2021

Question by Vikas - Aug 17, 2021Hindi

Dear SirIn these difficult times, I understand one must be grateful to have a job.I have your earlier columns where you have mentioned this.As you know, it is been 16-17 months since WFH started.At first it seemed good, especially since one did not have to travel.But now, after so many months, with parents and young kids and the wife’s demands, it is becoming difficult to concentrate and deliver results. In office, there are no such distractions.Many of my colleagues are facing the same problem because, like me, they have small houses.I tried working at a nearby cafe, but it upsets my family very much and causes increased tension at home.I understand the office’s side as well, but many of us are facing this problem.How do we raise such an issue with the management?Please help.Vikas

Ans:

Hi Vikas.

I am sure your management is aware of the issues related to work from home. But you must have a one on one discussion with your manager so that she/he is aware of your personal challenges.

At the same time explain to your family the importance of having a job and request them to be more accommodating.

With the vaccination drive picking up, most offices have started opening and the rest will open soon.

Career

Mayank Rautela | Answer |Ask -Follow

HR Expert - Answered on Aug 17, 2021

Question by Kanchi - Aug 17, 2021Hindi

Dear SirI am a housewife, not a working woman, facing work from home problems.In my family, my husband and my son are working from home. My daughter is in college and has online classes and projects.Between them, they occupy the hall and the bedroom.They don’t want noise and when there are video calls, one can’t even step into the room.I want to support them, but it is very frustrating. I am stuck in the kitchen. And everyone wants so much tea and coffee.Everyone says their work is important, but I work too doing all the housework and I have no way to relax. The TV is taken up in the evening and night by my husband and son.Shouldn’t companies have work from home policies for the family too?How do I make them understand I need a break too?Thank you.Kanchi

Ans:

Hi Kanchi,

You need to put your foot down and make your family realise your value.

You are clearly being taken for granted. Have a candid chat with them and I am sure they will understand.

A job provides financial support but the lady of the house provides much-needed emotional support and the comfort needed so that people can do their jobs without worrying about anything.

You can also look at options of your family members working from their friend's place or you stepping out to your friend's place.

Teach them how to make their own tea and coffee.

Don't worry, offices are opening up and soon all of them will be back to work or college.

Career