This is a whole new experience for me – starting a new job entirely remotely during a pandemic. It’s been a surreal experience; I was supposed to be off for a few days but used the time to get acquainted with the systems and processes as well as get us all moved over to the new benefits. It’s a strange feeling to be joining a team from afar – it will be interesting, to say the least.
So far, all bodes well: my first day, tomorrow, is a half day. The office closes at noon. I’m already on all the internal channels – chatting it up with the team, sending them all things to do. Making a terrific impression, I am sure.
You know the best part? This was one of the first jobs I applied to when I made the decision to go back to non-profit. It may have actually been the first. From the moment I spoke with my new boss, I knew that I was going to work with him. I remember talking with him the first time. I asked him what the organization’s response to the pandemic was; what he thought the impact of the pandemic would have on their ability to raise the funds for research. We got into a long discussion about what the expectations are despite the uncertainty; he had to stop himself – “I’m talking to you like you’re my colleague!” – and I knew I was in the finalist pool.
So, tomorrow, I officially start my new job, from home.
More to come.