If you ask an IT employee to come to office, he says ‘bye’: L&T Chairman
As the world continues to navigate the changing landscape of work-life balance, a recent statement by L&T Chairman SN Subrahmanyan has sparked a wave of debate among industry experts. In an interview, Subrahmanyan, who has been a stalwart in the Indian business world for over three decades, shared his candid observations on the modern workforce, particularly in the IT sector.
The L&T Chairman’s remark gained attention after he mentioned that if an IT employee is asked to come to the office and work, they are likely to say “bye” (resign) in response. This statement has raised many eyebrows, with some interpreting it as a criticism of the rising trend of remote work. However, upon closer examination, Subrahmanyan’s comment seems to be more nuanced than a blanket rejection of the concept.
Subrahmanyan’s statement is rooted in his own experiences in the industry. He joined Larsen & Toubro (L&T) in 1983 and has since seen the company grow into one of India’s largest conglomerates. In his early years at L&T, the Chairman recalls that his boss would often ask him to relocate to different parts of the country for work. “When I joined L&T in 1983, my boss said, if you’re from Chennai, you go to Delhi and work,” he said.
Fast forward to the present, and Subrahmanyan believes that the expectations from employees have changed dramatically. He argues that today’s IT employees are more demanding and expect greater work-life balance. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, the Chairman suggests that this shift in expectations has created new challenges for organizations.
Subrahmanyan’s comment about IT employees saying “bye” when asked to come to the office is not a rejection of remote work altogether. Instead, it highlights the need for organizations to adapt to the changing needs and preferences of their employees. The Chairman himself has acknowledged the benefits of remote work, stating that it can be beneficial for employees who have family commitments or live in areas with limited public transportation.
However, Subrahmanyan also emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between the benefits of remote work and the need for human interaction. He believes that employees need to feel connected to their colleagues and organization, and that remote work should not become a substitute for meaningful human connections.
The Chairman’s remarks have sparked a lively debate among industry experts, with some arguing that his comments are out of touch with the modern workforce. Others, however, have praised Subrahmanyan for highlighting the need for organizations to adapt to the changing needs of their employees.
So, what can organizations learn from Subrahmanyan’s remarks? Firstly, the Chairman emphasizes the importance of understanding the needs and preferences of employees. This requires organizations to be flexible and willing to adapt to changing circumstances. Secondly, the need for human interaction and connection cannot be overstated. While remote work can be beneficial, it should not become a substitute for meaningful relationships between employees and colleagues.
Finally, Subrahmanyan’s comments serve as a reminder that the traditional 9-to-5 workday is no longer the only option. Organizations must be willing to rethink their approach to work-life balance and provide employees with the flexibility they need to thrive.
In conclusion, while Subrahmanyan’s remarks may have sparked controversy, they also provide valuable insights into the changing nature of work. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of remote work, it is essential that organizations prioritize flexibility, understanding, and human connection.
