#FightBackCorona: We will have to build it back in a united way - Rana Barua

These are extraordinary times and we all are in uncharted territory. There is a lot of fear and negativity in all spheres due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. While the Corona Warriors are doing a tremendous job fighting from the frontlines, we at Adgully are embarking on an endeavour to highlight the positive developments during these challenging times. 

Over the next few weeks, Adgully will be featuring a series of brief interactions with industry leaders in India and find out how they are keeping their spirits up as well as keeping their employees motivated, also how they are joining in the fight against the adverse impact of the global pandemic. 

In an exclusive interaction with Adgully, Rana Barua, Chief Executive Officer, Havas Group India, talks about what keeps him going when the going gets tough. 

What steps are you and your organisation taking to help out the society at large or those engaged in the war against Covid-19?
We have not obligated any mandatory requirement from our employees. We are encouraging them to help on a personal basis if they want to, as individually majority are still figuring their own spaces, requirements and needs of the environment and also adapting to Work From Home (WFH) as a concept. 

How are you keeping your employees motivated and are encouraging them to give their best, even as they are working from home?
Firstly, we acknowledge and realise that this is a Herculean effort being put in to overcome an unprecedented crisis and something we have to win. At a core leadership level, we are all in it together and aligned to every decision and conversation, which then percolates down to each team leader and employee. I am absolutely clear that we are creating a work from home space together, where we understand and respect each other’s issues and problems – we do not pressurise nor clamber.

The message is simple: Try and keep our sense of humour alive, be patient  – let everyone have enough time to manage both work and home in these unprecedented times, continue engaging with clients, colleagues and friends. And lastly, ensure we do not despair – as this will pass. 

What is most needed in challenging times such as these:

From the general public:

• Calmness and adherence to all government and health rules.
• Do not spread nor believe in fake news and rumours.
• Stay positive, do not panic.

From the authorities:

• Understanding that this is unprecedented – so a bit more of patience and sensitivity towards the people will help.
• Clarity in communication on protocol/ rules will help people be clearer in any decision.

From business leaders:

• Responsible messaging and positive conversations to uplift the mood and sentiment.
• Sharing of best practises of WFH in their organisations for others to learn.
• Be together now and the next few months. We will have to build it back in a united way.

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