If you ask an IT employee to come to office, he says ‘bye’: L&T Chairman
The tech industry has undergone a significant transformation in the past few decades. With the advent of digital revolution, remote work has become a new normal, and many employees are now working from the comfort of their own homes. This shift has also led to a change in the way companies approach work-life balance and employee management. Recently, L&T Chairman SN Subrahmanyan made some interesting remarks on working from home, which have sparked a debate in the industry.
In an interview, Subrahmanyan shared his observations on how the work landscape has changed over the years. He recalled his early days at L&T, when employees were expected to be present in the office from morning to evening. However, he noted that today’s IT employees are not willing to compromise on their work-life balance and are instead opting for remote work.
“When I joined L&T in 1983, my boss said, if you’re from Chennai, you go to Delhi and work,” Subrahmanyan said. “Today, if you ask an IT employee to come to the office and work, he says ‘bye’ (he resigns),” he added.
Subrahmanyan’s remarks may seem surprising to some, given the recent trend of companies embracing work-from-home culture. However, his comments also highlight the changing expectations of employees and the need for companies to adapt to these changes.
The shift towards remote work has been driven by various factors, including the rise of digital tools and platforms, advancements in communication technology, and the growing demand for flexibility and work-life balance. Many employees, especially in the tech industry, are now looking for jobs that offer remote work options or flexible schedules.
In fact, a recent survey by Gallup found that 43% of employed adults in the United States are working remotely at least some of the time, up from 31% in 2015. The survey also revealed that remote workers tend to be more engaged and productive, with 60% of remote workers saying they are more productive when working remotely.
However, Subrahmanyan’s comments also raise concerns about the potential drawbacks of remote work. For instance, some companies may struggle to maintain a sense of community and teamwork among remote workers, which can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection.
Moreover, the lack of face-to-face interaction can also affect communication and collaboration, leading to misunderstandings and miscommunications. In some cases, remote workers may also feel like they are not as visible or recognized by their colleagues and management, which can impact their sense of belonging and job satisfaction.
To mitigate these risks, companies can implement various strategies to support remote workers, such as regular virtual meetings, online collaboration tools, and flexible scheduling. They can also prioritize employee engagement and recognition, through initiatives such as virtual town halls, employee recognition programs, and flexible work arrangements.
In conclusion, Subrahmanyan’s remarks highlight the changing landscape of work and the need for companies to adapt to the new normal. While remote work offers many benefits, including increased flexibility and productivity, it also presents challenges that require careful consideration. By embracing remote work and implementing strategies to support remote workers, companies can reap the benefits of a more flexible and productive workforce.
