Starting a new job  in Lockdown: Tope Onanuga at Amazon

1 July 2020

Tell us about your new role

I am a Junior Campaign Manager at Amazon; my role involves me supporting the campaigns team on campaigns through research on marketing and industry trends, brands, effective campaigns and social media. I also assist the team with admin tasks such as taking minutes in meetings and drafting emails to send to other departments.

What's it been like to start a new job whilst working remotely?

Starting a job remotely has taught me how to effectively adapt to working from home, it has been interesting to see how quickly everything has happened so quickly. One minute you are talking to colleagues in the office kitchen the next you are talking to them virtually from home.

I've also learnt the importance of setting up a productive desk space and keeping to a schedule as it can help to keep you organise especially during these times.

How has your company supported you to work from home effectively?

I have weekly check-in meetings with my manager and newsletters that contain a variety of mental health resources and top tips on working from home.

What has been your favourite thing about working remotely?

My favourite thing about working remotely has been being able to have more time to myself in the morning before starting work.

What would you recommend to anyone starting a new job whilst WFH:

1. Have a to-do list: Create the list at the start of the week, this will allow you to keep track of the tasks you have to do every week, prioritise which tasks you have to do and how you can effectively split your time between tasks you are working on.
2. Take a break: It is important to make sure that you take a break when you are working. If you are able to, take a break in a different room and not the one you are working in.
3. Continue conversations: Continue to schedule time to talk to your colleagues and check in with them, as you would do if you were in the office.