A completely new way of working together

Home office, virtual coffee breaks and selfie challenges - this is what everyday working life at BurdaForward currently looks like. Since the beginning of the week we have switched our business operations to remote with few exceptions due to the Corona pandemic. We are thus not only taking the necessary precautions to keep our services running despite the crisis and to protect our colleagues. We are also trying to limit the spread of the virus with the means at our disposal. 

New Work in fast forward

The measures required for remote operation are taken in a rush by an interdisciplinary team that meets daily and reacts immediately to feedback and new developments. In addition to the management, colleagues from HR, communications, IT, facilities and the works council ensure that the migration to the home workplace runs smoothly.

The situation requires not only a lot of information, but also tact and sensitivity. Motivating, with a great deal of empathy and understanding for the challenging situation, CEO Oliver Eckert communicates personally via the Social Intranet and a specially established Emergency Channel. Urgent concerns can also be raised around the clock via a telephone hotline and e-mail. 

Even in these first days of remote status, it is already proving to be a particular advantage that we at BurdaForward have been consistently pursuing the principle of trusted work locations and trusted working hours for a long time. The colleagues know the processes and are technically equipped to work from home.

Close to one another with virtual coffee breaks & home office selfies

At BurdaForward we usually work in open-plan offices at all locations, sit close together, exchange information non-stop and, above all, are always very close to the action in our editorial offices. At the moment this exchange is only possible virtually via Messenger and webcams. To ensure that the personal component is not neglected, we also simply meet for a virtual coffee break, where we not only exchange information about our tasks, but also report on our personal everyday life at home. Anyone who has the time and inclination to dial in can do so. 

True to the motto "What does your home office look like?", some colleagues have started a selfie challenge and share their work situations on the social intranet. And no matter if webcam or selfie: It can happen that animal roommates sneak into the picture, the door has to be opened quickly for the delivery service or the youngsters want to actively participate in discussions. And this is exactly what brings us very close together in this special situation.

Sara Kiesler

BurdaForward Communications

I like to tell stories. For example, about the work environment at BurdaForward - because I take care of internal communications and our events. I spend my free time with my dog, or depending on the season, also on the SUP or skiing. Basically, I like to be in nature! Preferably in the beautiful Bavarian Alps and my much-loved home, the Black Forest.