One in five employees fear job stability; layoffs affecting employee morale: Report

The 'India Best Workplaces in IT and IT-BPM 2024' report highlights layoffs, burnout, and disengagement challenges in India's IT sector, with top firms focusing on trust, flexibility, and employee well-being

Banking and financial services companies in the US are the major client of Indian IT firms | Reuters Banking and financial services companies in the US are the major client of Indian IT firms | Reuters

 Uncertain future continues to haunt employees in the IT and the BPM sector in India with one in every five employees questioning their job stability, reflecting growing concerns within the workforce. Employees today are increasingly seeking a better balance between their work and personal lives, and companies that respond with greater flexibility and support are seeing more engaged, loyal, and productive employees. This shift underscores the importance of trust, transparent communication, and a focus on employee well-being to maintain high levels of engagement and retention, particularly in the evolving IT sector in India. These findings about the IT sector employees were part of the 'India Best Workplaces in IT and IT-BPM 2024' report by Great Place To Work.

The report finds that while layoffs have affected headcounts across many IT companies, the impact on employee morale and trust has prompted companies to take significant steps to restore stability. According to the report, successful companies are focusing on transparency, communication, and implementing fair compensation practices. These organisations are transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation, with a clear focus on rebuilding trust and maintaining strong workplace cultures.

The report also reveals a three per cent decline in employee engagement among Gen Z workers particularly in the IT sector, signaling growing challenges in connecting with younger employees who are increasingly prioritising purpose-driven work and a strong sense of community. As per the report, this shift emphasises the evolving expectations of this generation, who seek workplaces that offer more than just a paycheck. In addition to the generational shift in engagement, the report highlights the growing issue of employee burnout, which continues to affect a significant portion of the workforce. Twenty-nine per cent of IT employees reported experiencing burnout this year.

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The report found that IT companies that are actively investing in improving flexibility, fostering involvement in decision-making, and offering a better work-life balance are seeing positive results. These organisations are not only reducing burnout but are also boosting employee satisfaction, leading to higher retention rates and stronger morale.

As per the report, in these challenging times, organisations that focus on building trust, enhancing employee engagement, and providing a sense of purpose are emerging stronger. Those excelling in these areas, particularly in sectors like IT and IT-enabled services (ITES), are successfully navigating the evolving landscape of the industry. These organisations are not just surviving but thriving, putting their employees at the heart of their strategy, fostering a culture of growth, and ensuring long-term success. By prioritising employee well-being and creating a workplace that nurtures purpose and belonging, these companies are laying the foundation for a resilient future.

The report highlights that while the sector experienced growth driven by digital transformation, it also faced hurdles such as a global slowdown and rising competition, making the adaptability and resilience of these organisations even more commendable. Despite the sector-wide challenge in engagement, with burnout affecting 29 per cent of IT employees, some exemplary workplaces have successfully fostered environments where employees feel heard, valued, and empowered in decision-making processes.

As per the report, the best workplaces in the IT sector with regard to their exceptional culture and employee satisfaction are: Adobe, Infosys Limited, Accenture Solutions Private Limited, Pitney Bowes India Private Limited and F5 Networks Innovation Private Limited.

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