My Lockdown 'Takeaways'

Last month I gave my first interview to a journalist writing a feature about Lockdown learnings.

It was an extremely positive experience and as we chatted, it occurred to me that over the past year I've done many things which I hadn't tried before the pandemic – most of them forced by, or as a result of, lockdown.

The last 12 months have taught me how important it is to have a solid support network. It's priceless to be able to seek out individuals or a community where you can trust each other. This should also include any professional services like accountants and solicitors – people you can trust and they trust you.

Although many of us would agree that this year has been one of the hardest we have had to deal with, we have also learned how we can work differently, tried new experiences and learned to value the good things far more.

I, for one, was forced to get to grips with using new technology that I never had time to master before – recruiting Alex – our newest team member using Zoom and meeting her in person only on her first day in the office.

For all the benefits remote working can bring, in my opinion, you just can't put a value on the banter and social aspect of being in an office – at least for some of the working week.

Training and supporting members of the team is also easier face-to-face and this is an integral part of our office life and how we learn and develop. 

The more flexible way of working is good news for parents who work. For years, many owners of small businesses and employees have struggled to juggle the demands of working alongside managing childcare.

Successful companies will need to become far more flexible and inclusive, whether a member of their staff is caring for a child or an ageing parent, it has proven to be more than possible to work differently.

I have lots of friends who have shared childcare with their partners to enable a balance of work and caring duties and there's no reason why some degree of this can't continue, as long as the needs of the business are met.

Many of our clients have been forced to adapt and are now happy to have video meetings, although I'm sure there's still a need for some face- to-face or telephone contact and I personally value that!

I'm hoping the coming weeks and months will see us keeping the benefits that have arisen out of this challenging time and we'll better appreciate the little things about returning to the office - like catching up with our team mates.

If you'd like to read the article, it's here https://www.financialaccountant.co.uk/features/the-year-the-earth-stood-still

Giltinan and Kennedy works in partnership with many businesses, charities and individuals across West Sussex and beyond. Please feel free to get in contact with us for an informal chat about your business finances on 01403 337490 or learn more at https://www.giltinan-kennedy.co.uk/services/tax-advisers