We find out how Dave our Business Development Directors is managing with our new normal in Lockdown

How are you doing Dave during this very strange and challenging time?

Myself and my family are doing well.  The times we live in have changed dramatically over the last several months.  Who would have thought back in the fall that thousands of people would have lost their lives, been quarantined because they contracted the virus or just confined to their homes in order to stay safe.   Unfortunately, this was not on anyone’s radar.   What is also unfortunate and challenging is that in the middle of a Global Pandemic, the US has had to deal with the social injustice against Afro-Americans.  I hope these two world-changing issues allow us to make much need changes in our country. Social injustice will continue to divide the US.  Our growth as a nation depends on all races.
We heard from Neil our CEO last month about how businesses are coping in the UK, can you tell us about Stateside? How are you all doing?

The hospitality and travel industry has been hit extremely hard but there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel.  While the current environment has been challenging I believe our customers have used this time to gain knowledge of technology and how it will benefit them in the future.  I have participated in a number of webinars and customer calls during the Pandemic.  To be honest I see Customer / Vendor relationships at an all-time high.  Prior to the pandemic, everyone on a video call would have been dressed in a shirt with a collar, blouse, Dress, jacket or even a tie.  Now we are on calls with tee shirts and baseball caps.  Everyone is much more relaxed even though we are having a business call.  This is the way business should be done. 

Have you seen any inspirational or any great success stories to come out of this lockdown so far?

Yes, for sure.  I see people coming together within the hospitality vertical.  With so many lay-offs I have seen people go above and beyond to help, former co-workers or even strangers find employment.  On a personal note being on lockdown has allowed me to help my daughter with her English Honors Class.  She is a freshman in high school and prior to the pandemic was hitting that Freshman wall.  We have been able to work together on her assignments nightly and she is close to obtaining an “A” for the last marking period.

The nationwide lockdown has created a lot of fundamental changes and challenges to people’s everyday life, what do you think you have learned from lockdown and what would you like to take away from this pandemic?

I have learned that life and our ability to go outside, travel, and attend events is something that is very special and should be cherished.  Losing your freedom to go and come as you please is something I think we sometimes take for granted.   Being on lockdown has allowed us to look at technology and the advantages it can bring us.  We are finding creative ways to communicate and meet remotely without having face to face meetings.  Also, we are learning that we need to respect each other.
What methods are you using to stay motivated?

From a business perspective, I have used this time to really study and learn the Fourteen IP product line.  We have some really cool applications that can help hotels increase revenue and productivity.  I want to make sure I have the knowledge to help our customers.  Personally I have watched more public news than ever before.  While the issues of the Pandemic and social injustice has been the major headlines, I see this as a wake-up call for our country and the rest of the world.  We all should be motivated to love and respect one another.  We will not have progress without change.

Finally, how are you finding the work-life balance when working from home? 

I believe I have been able to create a good balance.  Outside of my daily work activities, I have been able to work on much need home projects such as painting, repairs and etc.  I have done more painting in three months than I have done in 5 years.  The good thing is I have a sense of pride when I finish a home project.  I have this very same excitement with a big win at work.  Prior to the pandemic I never knew home and work projects with giving me the same great feeling.  Also, my entire family has been pushing each other to work out and stay in shape.  My wife and I have two kids that are athletes in college and high school so we are trying our best to keep up with them.
What challenges have you overcome when working from home? 

For me, this was not a challenge.  I have worked from home for the last 15 years so I am used to it.  My wife is now working from home and kids doing online classes.  We have all adjusted very well.  I think the biggest adjustment has been our dog Cody who runs back and forth all day to see what we are doing.  LOL!  Its been a pleasure watching my wife and kids work from home.

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