RETURN TO OFFICE | REAL TRUTH ABOUT INFOSYS RETURN TO OFFICE POLICY

Summary

The video discusses the shift from work-from-home (WFH) to office work, focusing on companies like TCS, Infosys, and Wipro. Initially, WFH became widespread during COVID, with companies distributing laptops and exploring permanent WFH models. However, most companies are now phasing back to office work, with some following a hybrid model. The video emphasizes the pros and cons of both setups, addressing issues like salary, expenses, productivity, and career growth. It also highlights how WFH impacts employees differently and the potential consequences of not returning to the office.

Takeaways

• 😀 Remote work became prevalent after the pandemic started, with companies quickly adapting to work-from-home setups.
• 💼 Prior to COVID-19, work-from-home was rare and required managerial approval and a valid reason.
• 📦 Companies faced challenges distributing laptops, as many employees worked on desktop computers in the office.
• 🏠 Several companies, including Infosys and TCS, transitioned to phased office re-openings after initially supporting remote work.
• 👩‍💻 Some IT companies used a 'phased approach' to bring employees back to the office, starting with a small percentage and gradually increasing it.
• 🚨 Some companies, like TCS, warned employees that not returning to the office could negatively impact promotions or salary raises.
• 🌍 In the U.S. and Canada, Infosys has mandated office work for certain employees, with remote work requiring special permission.
• 💡 Many service-based companies, especially in banking and government sectors, prefer office work due to data security concerns.
• 🛑 Remote work is being phased out in favor of office work, with hybrid models being introduced for flexibility.
• 🚦 Employees face logistical challenges returning to the office, including traffic, time management, and balancing work-life commitments.

Q & A

What was the work-from-home policy like before the COVID-19 pandemic?

Before the pandemic, work-from-home (WFH) was rarely allowed. Employees needed a valid reason and their manager's approval to work from home. Without valid justification, WFH was not granted.

How did the COVID-19 pandemic change the work-from-home policies?

The pandemic led to companies widely adopting work-from-home policies as offices were forced to close. Employees who had previously only worked in-office had to switch to remote work, and companies began distributing laptops to employees who were used to working on office desktops.

What challenges did companies face when shifting to work-from-home during the pandemic?

Many companies faced issues with laptop distribution, as many employees didn't have their own laptops and relied on office desktops. There were also challenges with maintaining critical project security, especially for companies working on sensitive projects like banking or government work.

How did companies benefit financially from the work-from-home model?

Companies saved money on office space and related expenses, such as rent and utilities, as fewer employees were working from physical offices.

What changes are companies now making as they transition away from work-from-home?

Many companies are moving back to the work-from-office model. For instance, companies like TCS and Infosys are implementing a phased approach to bring employees back to the office. Some are adopting hybrid models, while others are mandating full-time office work.

What is the phased approach that some companies are using to bring employees back to the office?

Companies are using a phased approach where a small percentage of employees (e.g., 25%) return to the office first, followed by an increase in the number of employees over time. This allows companies to manage the transition gradually.

What conditions are being set for employees who live near office locations?

Employees living in the same city as their office or within a nearby range (30-40 km) are expected to commute to the office at least a few days per week, depending on company policy.

How are companies handling work-from-home requests now?

Companies are requiring special permission for employees to continue working from home. Employees must provide a valid reason and obtain approval from their managers to work remotely.

What consequences might employees face for not returning to the office?

Employees who do not follow the work-from-office guidelines could face disciplinary actions. Additionally, their promotion or salary hike opportunities may be affected.

What challenges are employees facing with the return to office, especially in cities like Bengaluru?

Employees in cities like Bengaluru face long commute times due to heavy traffic. This adds extra hours to their workday, reducing the time available for personal activities. Additionally, expenses like transportation and meals also increase when commuting to the office.