WFH woes: Bhumika Group MD's day begins and ends with his phone

Uddhav Poddar, MD, Bhumika Group, has clocked in more screen time while working from home in the past few months.

"During this unprecedented time, all of us adapted to remote work through the use of technology. This shift has increased the use of video conferencing tools and other workplace applications. Also, technology has been fundamental in allowing us to do the things we love remotely; from online fitness classes to socialising with friends," he told ET Panache.

Gadget dependence
"My day starts and ends with my phone. Though it is not my life, a significant part of my life. Much of my business can be conducted online. It helps me stay connected with my business and people, especially the ones close to me and provides a sense of security. Smart TVs are a full-blown multimedia experience these days. Not only did it keep us completely entertained during the lockdown, but every member of the family is spoilt for choices due to the unlimited content it offers," he says.


Phone pace
"I’m not a phone freak, and only change my phone when needed. Currently I’m using an iPhone X which I’m very happy with. I have been an iPhone user for years, and I believe that iPhone remains the easiest phone to use by far. Another reason why I use Apple phones is that they work beautifully with Macs. My favorite feature is the AirDrop, which lets me easily transfer any data over Wi-Fi from iPhone to Macbook Air," he says.

Poddar's mornings are usually off all gadgets, he connects with nature first and then likes to work out for an hour.

"I start using my phone when I’m ready to leave home to go to work. The latest gadget I’m enjoying using is the new Airpod pros. I find myself multitasking easily now. It is easy to carry since it comes in a compact case and has impressive battery life. Also comes handy when I want to listen to music during my morning run or take calls while I’m driving," he says.

App trap
Apps that Poddar uses a lot are Google maps, Whatsapp, Notes, Zoom, Microsoft teams, Instagram, Gmail, Netflix, Amazon prime, Hotstar and Safari.

"I am using most of them for my work but I bend towards Netflix, Amazon prime, Hotstar, Instagram when I want to switch off from work. My calendar and Notes help me stay quite organised," he says.

Gadget gyaan
"I do use some fitness apps on my iPhone, this helps me track the number of steps and kilometres I have walked or run and also monitor my sleep and weight. I walk at least five to seven kilometres four times a week," he says.

Poddar's IT team has worked overtime to ensure continuity of business during the pandemic, and they invested in additional laptops, more efficient routers, softwares and hardwares.

He didn’t face any issues when he was working from home, and continues to use the same applications that he was using earlier.