Will Employees Quit if They Are Forced Back into the Office?
“The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the trend of remote working in India, with many companies shifting to a fully or partially remote model. This shift has brought about both challenges and opportunities for workers and employers alike. In this blog, we will explore the current state of remote working in India, its impact on the workforce, and strategies for making the most of this new way of working.”
Nasscom, an industry trade group representing the Indian IT-BPM industry, has stated that the majority of the employees in the IT industry would like to continue working from home, even after the pandemic subsides. They have found that working from home has led to increased productivity and improved work-life balance for employees. While working from home has its benefits, such as flexibility and cost savings, it can also come with its own set of challenges. For some employees, the lack of separation between work and personal life, as well as the difficulties of staying connected and motivated, can make working from home unbearable.
Some Employees may be more likely to quit if they are asked to work from home, such as:
- Employees who thrive on face-to-face interaction and collaboration: Some employees may find that they work best in a team environment, and they may miss the camaraderie and sense of community that they get from working in an office.
- Employees who lack self-discipline: Remote working requires a high level of self-discipline, as there are no managers physically present to supervise or monitor employees. Some employees may find it difficult to stay focused and motivated when working from home.
- Employees who have personal responsibilities or care-giving obligations: Some employees may find it challenging to balance work and personal responsibilities, such as caring for children or elderly relatives, when working from home.
- Employees who don’t have a dedicated work space: Remote working requires a dedicated work space, which can be quiet and free of distractions. Some employees may not have this kind of space in their home, which may negatively affect their productivity.
It’s worth noting that the factors that may lead an employee to quit are not limited to the above mentioned, and it also depends on the individual’s personal circumstances, job profile, and company culture.
According to a Report by Buffer in 2020
However, according to a report by Buffer in 2020, around 42% of people in India said that they would prefer to work from home full-time, while an additional 37% would prefer a mix of working from home and working in an office. On an average, it is estimated that employees in Hyderabad can save around 1-2 hours of time per day by working from home, as compared to working in an office. This time can be used to spend with family or to do other activities, which can also help to improve their work-life balance.
“As we look towards the future of work, it’s clear that remote working will continue to play a significant role. The ability to work from anywhere has opened up new opportunities for both companies and employees, and has the potential to reshape the way we think about work altogether. However, it’s important to remember that remote working comes with its own set of challenges, and that it’s essential to find a balance between work and personal life. By staying informed, being proactive and staying connected, we can make the most of the remote working trend and build a more productive, inclusive, and flexible workforce.”
