'The entire Atlas Copco family has welcomed me with open arms' - a year in review with John McGuirk
What was it like to begin a new role during a challenging 2020?
It was certainly something different that’s for sure. None of my modules in college could have prepared me for it anyways! Its been a challenge, everyone has had to adapt to the new way business is conducted. But thankfully the entire Atlas family has welcomed me with open arms. "Any and all questions that I have asked has been answered without any hesitation. There was some real uncertainty at the beginning of the pandemic but thankfully there appears to be light at the end of the tunnel and I can look forward to the future with Atlas.
Atlas Copco Ireland
How has it affected development and training?
I suppose to begin with the pandemic didn’t really affect my training too much I was able to complete various online training and my colleagues were able to get me up to speed with the different systems we use. "The main affect of the virus has been my inability to call to customer sites. This is something I was looking forward to and hopefully once the lock down is finished I will be able to get out and meet my customers face to face.
What tips/tricks have helped you during lock down and working from home periods?
One of the biggest tips I was given was to get out of the house and try your best to get away from the computer screen for a while. "Head for a walk and clear your head during lunch and come back with a fresh mindset. Another one was keep a diary or a to do list to keep on top of all your work.
What is one thing you have learned?
People are so understanding. Coming into a new job was daunting but whether it is asking a question of my colleagues or telling the customer I am unsure of the answer and I will go find out, they completely understand and appreciate that we are all constantly learning on the job!