The COVID pandemic has produced many changes in our society. Far too many have been affected directly by death, lingering illness, and economic devastation. These types of losses overshadow the very real psychological toll the pandemic has taken on those who have gone relatively untouched by loss of friends and loved ones or even a decline in income.
Being a bench scientist working at a company often means that you work at the same bench or laboratory for many years. Maybe you occasionally change laboratories, most likely in the same building. The only way for change is often to change jobs. But does it have to be that way?
This past week, a series of winter storms hit much of the U.S., causing devastation in many areas. The shutdown of grocery stores, gas stations, and other essential businesses has had a major impact on many people and companies across the country. Our best wishes go out to those of you who have suffered losses and hardships.
A major advantage of working with ABS is our flexibility. We customize our offerings according to your needs. To successfully deliver this type of service requires structure along with responsiveness.
Too often a slogan is often a meaningless tagline. An Extension of Your Laboratory® has been a part of our ethos since we began in 1990. Recent events have emphasized its importance. With many of our clients’ laboratories nearly shut down or only partially staffed, we were able to help them continue their operations. We intensified our safety precautions, worked remotely as much as possible, and ramped up our operations to meet the increased need of clients.
2020 has been a challenging year for many. ABS is grateful to its employees and clients for enabling us to overcome those challenges. The remainder of the year will be difficult for far too many with hospitalizations and deaths continuing to rise. Although it is tempting to celebrate together, please persevere by avoiding travel and gatherings outside of one’s immediate household. The pandemic will come to end, and by doing what we know we should do, the path to end will be less painful.
None of us have escaped the uncertainty brought about by the pandemic, the U.S. elections, and the economy. Uncertainty can lead to feelings of a loss of control and fear. In the short term, fear may be a powerful motivator. In the intensity of an immediate crisis, fear may be lifesaving. However, in many situations, fear often further clouds the mind and can lead to unproductive or harmful actions. In the long term, fear is increasingly stressful and debilitating.
The previous blog discussed communication. This post discusses the other side of the coin: too much communication. We all are inundated with a constant deluge of emails, texts, phone calls, and video-calls. The ability to communicate immediately with individuals and large numbers of colleagues is a powerful capability. Used judiciously, it can benefit everyone. Used capriciously, it can be annoying and reduce productivity.
Sharing ideas for improvement can be challenging. If you are the receiving end, it can be viewed as criticism. Others might consider suggestions as a sign of a lack of appreciation, understanding, or respect. That can be the case if such sharing is not approached mindfully and with understanding. Approaching others with the intention of benefiting all involved is more beneficial and respectful than not engaging with others to discuss perceived issues or areas for improvement.
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