If you ask an IT employee to come to office, he says ‘bye’: L&T Chairman
The modern workplace has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with the rise of remote work and flexible work arrangements becoming the norm. In an era where technology has enabled people to work from anywhere, it’s not uncommon for employees to expect more flexibility in their work schedules. However, this shift has not been without its challenges, and many companies are still grappling with the best way to manage their remote workforces.
In a recent interview, SN Subrahmanyan, the Chairman of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), made some interesting remarks on the topic of working from home. In an attempt to illustrate the changing landscape of the modern workplace, Subrahmanyan drew an analogy between the past and present, highlighting the significant differences in employee expectations.
According to Subrahmanyan, when he joined L&T in 1983, the company’s management had a different approach to work arrangements. He recalled how his boss would say, “If you’re from Chennai, you go to Delhi and work.” This meant that employees were expected to relocate to the company’s headquarters in Delhi, regardless of their place of origin. This was the norm at the time, and employees were expected to adapt to the company’s requirements.
Fast-forward to the present, and the situation is vastly different. Subrahmanyan observed that if an IT employee is asked to come to the office and work, they are likely to say ‘bye’ – a polite way of saying goodbye or resignation. This stark contrast highlights the significant shift in employee expectations and the changing nature of work.
Subrahmanyan’s remarks are a reflection of the challenges that many companies are facing in today’s digital age. As the world becomes increasingly connected, employees are no longer bound by geographical constraints, and they expect more flexibility in their work arrangements. With the rise of remote work, employees are able to work from anywhere, at any time, and this has fundamentally changed the way companies approach talent management.
The benefits of remote work are well-documented. For one, it offers employees greater flexibility and work-life balance, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and productivity. Additionally, remote work can also help companies reduce overhead costs, such as office space and utilities, and attract top talent from a global pool.
However, remote work also presents its own set of challenges. Managers must learn to trust employees to manage their time effectively, and ensure that they are meeting their performance goals. Additionally, remote workers may feel isolated or disconnected from their colleagues and the company culture, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and disengagement.
In his remarks, Subrahmanyan also highlighted the need for companies to adapt to the changing landscape. He emphasized the importance of trust, flexibility, and communication in managing remote workforces. By empowering employees to work from anywhere, companies can tap into their skills and expertise, while also improving job satisfaction and productivity.
Subrahmanyan’s comments are a timely reminder of the need for companies to rethink their approach to work arrangements. As the world continues to evolve, it’s essential for companies to be adaptable and responsive to changing employee expectations. By embracing remote work and flexible work arrangements, companies can attract and retain top talent, while also improving their bottom line.
In conclusion, Subrahmanyan’s remarks serve as a wake-up call for companies to rethink their approach to work arrangements. The rise of remote work has changed the way employees work, and companies must adapt to these changes if they want to remain competitive. By embracing trust, flexibility, and communication, companies can build a workforce that is happy, productive, and engaged – regardless of where they work.
