#WFH Diaries: Volker Jensen of MOTOR Berlin

As confinement continues in most parts of the world, we’re checking in with creative people to see how they’re faring. Here’s an update from Volker Jensen, managing partner at MOTOR Berlin.

Give us a one sentence bio on yourself.

I am a typical Berliner, which naturally means I moved here from elsewhere.

Where are you living right now, and with who?

I am living in Berlin with my wife.

What’s your work situation like at the moment?

Let’s say: different, but not that different. Direct personal contact is one of MOTOR’s biggest assets, internally as well as the relationship with our clients. And not different, as we are used to working remotely with many clients.

Describe your new socializing strategy.

We have a Google Meet stream from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., where everyone can join and leave as they like. It’s kind of the equivalent to our open-plan office, including the after-work beer.

What are you reading?

I try to read my colleagues’ minds while they stare at the Google Meet screen. No luck so far.

What are you watching?

What everyone watches: our client Netflix. And sometimes Sky and Amazon Prime. Please don’t tell Netflix. 😉

What are you listening to?

The new song from Liam Gallagher, “Once.” Be sure to watch the music video with Eric Cantona. Brilliant!

How are you staying fit?

As the fitness studio is closed, I work out by preparing the balcony with flowers and stuff.

Do you have a new hobby?

I built a little music-producing studio at home. My new hobby is watching tutorials of how to get the beat tighter, make the perfect mix … or find that damn button for turning off the f**king metronome.

Any tips for stocking the pantry?

I just ran into my neighbor Karsten in the staircase. He runs 100 Brote (“100 Breads”) and is now offering a delivery service. 

Best work-related email you’ve received since this started.

A mail from one of our clients, asking us to “please wear trousers in video calls.”

An awkward moment since this started.

Not following the aforementioned rule. But I learned my lesson.

An “aha!” moment since this started.

Wow, you have to cook nearly all day when you’re at home and can’t grab anything to eat outside!

What’s your theory on how this will play out?

This time will teach us to respect health, solidarity, teamwork … and fast internet connections.

See the full #WFH Diaries series here.