One type of job that has been affected by the pandemic is the online photo editing job. Before you ask what this job is, a photo editor’s tasks include coordinating and provide assignments to photographers in the field, image editing, and providing their clients with photos with enhanced graphics. Whew, what a mouthful.
So no, it’s not just someone doing photo editing and design in Adobe Photoshop. Oh no, a photo editor’s job is similar to that of an editor for a newspaper or magazine. Part of their job is to ensure that photographs are edited properly and suit the needs of their clients. They serve a vital role in businesses that rely on plenty of images for marketing purposes.
Because of the pandemic and the uncertainty of physical meetings, office-based photo editors are now shifting to a work from home setup. To help them adjust to their new work environment, here are some of the essential skills they’re going to need when working at home.
Good Communication Skills
Yeah, I know, I know. Saying this is already common sense. But good communication skills are even more vital now that you can’t physically meet both your clients and team members. Internet issues, unfamiliarity with new social media platforms, and conflicting schedules are just some of the problems that you’ll be facing in this new kind of work setup.
To minimize any communication problems, plan and schedule meetings ahead of time and ensure that you and your team and clients have each other’s contact information. When conversing with your team or client, make sure to speak clearly and concisely so that you’re easily understood. Don’t forget to also listen attentively to what they’ll be saying in return to ensure you’re both on the same page.
Adaptability
Definitively one of the vital skills you’ll need for your online photo editing job. The demands of online working and the stress of changing from an office setup to a home one requires you to adapt to an ever-changing work environment. Without it, you will struggle to meet deadlines, causing delays and problems for you, your team, and your clients.
How do you train yourself to be more adaptable? It’s on the small things. From simply learning to adjust your voice when making a call to changing your sleep schedule, building habits slowly is the best way to learn adaptability.
Learn to Trust and be Trusted
Another vital skill that you need to learn is to trust in both your clients and team members. Because you’re not working in an office anymore, it’s difficult to know whether or not your team members are working. On that same note, your trust your clients that they won’t turn back their word on what you’ve agreed upon as well.
Of course, trust goes both ways. People will follow through on their commitments to you if they think you’re trustworthy as well. Always ensure that you’re also fulfilling your parts on time so that your team members are more willing to do theirs as well.
Time Management
Connected to my previous skill is this one. Work from home means little to no supervision, and with so many distractions, such as social media, you can lose track of time. If you’re like me, who’s easily distracted, 8 hours won’t be enough for your work.
To avoid wasting your time, develop a schedule in mind and stick with it. For example, when starting your shift, look at your tasks for that day. Decide then on how long you’re going to spend on each one. Once you’ve accomplished this, stick with it and develop a habit from it. That way, you can ground yourself to a semblance of your old office setup. If it’s your first time working, it’ll give you a glimpse of working in an office.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the skills you will need to become a great online photo editor. The skills I have mentioned are what allow you to function well while working at home.
Though overlooked, they’re just as important as your actual work skills. Why? Because they allow you to work efficiently, despite your new work environment. Without them, you’ll struggle to utilize your work skills as you struggle to manage your time, adjust to the new work environment, trust, and communicate with your clients and team members.
