Two of our colleagues, Alena and Naaila, tell us more about their virtual inductions at Hastings Direct.
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Naaila, Quality Assessor, Leicester
Can you tell us about your virtual induction as a new starter?
My induction has been a smooth process, given the circumstances. Our HR team gave me an excellent induction pack and overview and my immediate team has been amazing at bringing me up to speed, which I highly appreciate.
How did you get set up to start working?
Adhering to social distancing rules, I collected my laptop from the Advantage office in Gibraltar and was supported by the IT support team via remote access to get me up and running.
How have you ‘met’ your colleagues and wider team?
I have used Zoom, Skype and 3CX to keep in touch virtually with my new colleagues. I feel like we have the means necessary to communicate well and work efficiently, despite the remote working conditions.
What are your thoughts about the company, having joined during lockdown?
I think Hastings has adapted remarkably swiftly to the new working conditions. It is good to see that degree of flexibility and endurance in a changing environment, which I think is key for an organisation to be successful and stand out from its peers.
What’s the biggest change you’ve had to adapt to while being at home?
Placing a boundary between working hours and family time has been challenging for me in a homeworking environment. I found it useful to have a designated work station and I take a short walk around the block at the end of the working day to help me switch off and reset for a few hours of quality family time.
What are you looking forward to most when we can go back into the office?
I’m looking forward to meeting the team in person.
What has been a highlight for you so far?
What has impressed me so far is the spirit of cooperation in our team and the productive work environment.
Naaila, Quality Assessor, Leicester
Can you tell us about your virtual induction as a new starter?
I had an introductory Skype call with the Quality team leaders, two of whom interviewed me, so it was nice seeing familiar faces. The call was an opportunity for me to get to know all the leaders and what they do, as well as answering any questions I had.
How did you get set up to start working?
Once I had my laptop, one of the trainers contacted me and gave me a guide on setting up and explained what the next steps were in terms of training. Unfortunately I did have a few IT issues that delayed this, however the Quality team leaders have been helping with this.
How have you ‘met’ your colleagues and the wider team?
I was able to meet all my colleagues via a Skype call.
What are your thoughts about the company, having joined during lockdown?
Everyone I have come into contact with has been super nice and helpful, which makes me feel very welcome.
What’s the biggest change you’ve had to adapt to while being at home?
The biggest change for me has to be trying to stay focused whilst at home, because my home is generally my place to relax. So trying to not get too comfortable and have 100% focus is something I am adapting to.
What are you looking forward to most when we can go back into the office?
I am most looking forward to seeing all my colleagues as it’s very strange working for a call centre, which typically has hundreds of people buzzing around, while being alone in my bedroom.
What has been a highlight for you so far?
The support I’ve had has been the highlight for me. I’ve had some IT issues which means my training hasn’t happened as planned, yet my colleagues have still put together a plan and supported me so that I’m able to learn and make best use of my time.
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Date added: 1st July 2020