42-Year-Old Professional Seeks Advice on Overcoming Dislike for Remote Meetings

Ans:

Dear Sir,
I will soon be in a position where I will have to interview potential candidates for my department.
I have never interviewed anyone for a job before.
What should I keep in mind and how will I know the person in front of me is a good candidate and a good fit for my department?
Looking forward to your reply. Please don’t reveal my name.

Interviewing is a skill that you develop on the job.

Since you are starting to take interviews, it will be a good idea to do short term online training or in-person training for the same.

You can also approach your HR team or immediate supervisor to be your coach in this aspect.

Ans:

Hi Kiran.

I agree that WFH is a relatively new concept and does impact productivity especially in India as our homes are not designed to have work stations and infrastructure.

As a team leader, you can initiate these specific steps:

1. TRUST your team members. No one is having fun at home. Everyone wants to work and add value.

2. Clearly define the job roles and outcomes/targets.

3. Connect one-on-one with your team members to understand what they are going through.

4. Going to the office and travel would be a challenge, but you can get your colleagues to meet in smaller groups closer to their homes.

5. Make online meetings informal and fun and not very stiff and formal.

Ans: Dear K,
Give yourself a break from the monotony. Paulo Coelho said: If you think Adventure is dangerous, then try Routine, it's lethal!
You have been doing little to infuse your life with joy and excitement. How much of the mind would have broadened by working in the same place for 32 years?
Your mind is just asking for a break...go ahead, travel...seek the company of new people and live through a few adventures. You will come back feeling refreshed and also work better. Go challenge yourself...

All the best!

Ans: Dear K
It sounds like you may be experiencing a deeper sense of disengagement and possibly even symptoms of depression or anxiety. It's important to address these feelings and seek support from professionals if needed. Consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor who can provide you with support and guidance. They can help you explore the underlying causes of your feelings and develop coping strategies to manage them. Prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, spending time outdoors, and engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being is crucial for managing stress and improving your mood.Even if you don't feel like socializing, try to stay connected with friends and loved ones. Having a support system can provide comfort and perspective during difficult times.Reflect on what gives your life meaning and purpose beyond work. Consider volunteering, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in activities that align with your values and interests. Be gentle with yourself and recognize that it's okay to have periods of low motivation or energy. Set realistic expectations for yourself and celebrate small victories along the way.If you're experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, such as persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worry, consider speaking with a psychiatrist. They can assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.Establishing a daily routine can provide structure and stability, which can be especially helpful if you're feeling aimless or unmotivated. Try to incorporate activities that bring you a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.Practice mindfulness and focus on the present moment rather than dwelling on past regrets or worrying about the future. Mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your mind and reduce stress.
Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and you don't have to navigate these feelings alone. There are resources and support available to help you work through this challenging time and rediscover a sense of purpose and fulfillment in your life.