No handshake, Chintels India MD says Namaste is the way forward

Prashant Solomon, Managing Director, Chintels India is quite fortunate to be living close to his workspace. He told ET Panache, "My office is in Sector 114, Gurgaon, and I commute to work by car. Since my office is only five minutes away from home, the experience is pleasant and hassle-free. I do not have to face any worries while commuting."

After spending over two months at home, during the lockdown, the first day back to office was quite momentous for Solomon.

Appreciation

"Before the lockdown, we were so used to the daily monotony of going to office that none of us appreciated it. However, the lockdown made us value our workspace and respect our occupation more. On the first day back to work, I wore a mask and recorded the drive on my iPhone as I felt it was a moment to cherish. In the beginning, stepping into the office after so long felt surreal but then things normalised quickly. The only difference was that everyone was wearing masks and maintaining social distance. Work progressed as usual and we fell into step with the new normal," he shared.

The office has been open for a few months now and they have ensured that all precautions are being taken to minimise risk. "The health and wellbeing of our employees and their families is of utmost importance. Everyone has to wear a mask at office. We have made it a practice to only greet each other with a Namaste. Handshakes are a strict no-no in all situations. We have also placed hand sanitisers at all strategic points to avoid the possibility of infection," he said.

Online
As a real estate company, much of Chintel's work is on the field, be it at construction sites or with prospective buyers. However, the pandemic has led to a major drop in personal interactions and meetings have largely moved online.

"Getting back to working at the office was quite easy for me because of the short commute as well as the comfortable atmosphere. Knowing we are taking all possible measures to avoid infection gives me peace of mind. I enjoy being back to working at the office, even though the situation is different now. I consciously encourage Zoom or other video conferencing tools, for myself and all employees, and avoid personal and face-to-face meetings wherever possible," Solomon said.

Having employees who are like a part of one’s family means that the workplace also feels like home. "Being away from the office for such a long stretch of time was unprecedented for all of us and I was looking forward to being back in my workspace. Considering we are taking all precautions I have not faced any challenge with working in the office," he said.

Routine
The company has almost completely adapted to the new normal. "While we practice stringent social distancing, most of our staff is back to work and the office timings are the same as before, which is 9:30 am to 5:30 pm," he added.

The pandemic has led to difficulties in all sectors, globally. Solomon tells fellow bosses, "It is imperative that we return to work and support the economy and society to the extent possible. While the lockdown did control the spread of the virus, it has led to socio-economic crises and leaders need to step up and take charge. My only advice to other bosses who want to begin office work again is - Just Do It! The longer you push it off, the harder it will be. Now is the time to be back at the forefront but ensure that you follow all suggested precautions."

The pandemic has made Solomon realise what is important in life. "I thank God for my family and for giving me good health. I am extremely grateful for all the blessings and opportunities that have been given to me. I feel thankful for the fact that I am able to return to work and I am healthy. We must always take time out and thank God for everything we have," he ended.