Over the past decade, employee expectations in India have undergone a significant transformation. The conventional 9-to-5 workday is no longer the standard, as employees now seek greater flexibility and autonomy in how they manage their work. This shift, hastened by the COVID-19 pandemic, reflects a growing desire for more meaningful engagement, where employees feel heard, understood, and supported in their roles.  

A Gallup report highlights a concerning state of employee wellbeing in India, with only 14% of employees feeling they are “thriving” in life, while an alarming 86% are either struggling or suffering. As mental health and well-being become focal points, organizations must adapt to these changing expectations to attract and retain talent. Understanding these evolving dynamics is essential to fostering a more engaged workforce, which is crucial for driving business success. 

Shifts in Employee Expectations Over the Past Decade 

In recent years, the expectations of employees in India have evolved significantly. The traditional work model of arriving at the office at 9 AM and leaving at 5 PM has been replaced by a demand for greater flexibility in terms of when, where, and how work is done. This shift, accelerated by the pandemic, has made it clear that employees now value autonomy and flexibility. 

Employees today want to feel heard and understood. As mental health has gained more focus globally, including in India, businesses must equip their teams with resources to thrive. Effective employee engagement is driven by how well individuals connect with their roles and colleagues. 

The Importance of Employee Engagement for Business Outcomes 

Engaged employees are crucial for the success of any organization. Disengaged workers can impede growth and increase risks for the business. Employees who are more engaged are more: 

• optimistic 
• productive 
• team-oriented  
• hard-working  
• willing to contribute positively to the company 

How to Measure Employee Engagement 

Effective employee engagement starts with listening. For this to be meaningful, employees need avenues to provide feedback. There are two primary methods: 

1. Surveys: Regular surveys from the onset of employment can be insightful. Employees often form their opinions within the first 30 days, which influences their long-term satisfaction. Surveys help identify issues early and gauge if expectations are being met, alongside providing insights into company culture. Transparent sharing of survey results and the actions taken can enhance trust and engagement. For instance, feedback on the need for flexible work arrangements led to their implementation to attract and retain talent.
2. Employee Listening Strategy: This involves gathering feedback frequently and promptly. Continuous feedback mechanisms, such as pulse surveys on current topics or workplace norms, help in understanding ongoing employee sentiments. This approach provides a comprehensive view of engagement and identifies areas needing improvement. 

Tips for Enhancing Employee Engagement 

Here are some strategies to improve employee engagement:

1. Assess the Current State: Start by understanding your current engagement levels through surveys or feedback. It’s important to address issues rather than ignore them, as awareness is the first step towards improvement. 
2. Walk the Talk: Ensure that the organization follows through on promises made to employees. Transparent communication about upcoming changes and maintaining accountability are crucial for building trust and a positive employee-manager relationship. 
3. Leverage Technology: Utilize technology to enhance employee autonomy and streamline processes. Tools for customizing onboarding, digital HR policies, mobile clocking, and automated notifications can significantly improve the employee experience. Additionally, technology can aid in analyzing feedback through artificial intelligence, helping to identify trends and eliminate biases. 

As the expectations of employees continue to evolve, organizations in India must prioritize employee engagement to stay competitive and achieve sustainable growth. By recognizing the importance of flexibility, actively listening to employee feedback, and leveraging technology to enhance the work experience, businesses can create an environment where employees are motivated, productive, and aligned with organizational goals. With the right strategies in place, companies can not only improve employee satisfaction and retention but also drive profitability, enhance customer loyalty, and ultimately ensure long-term success in a rapidly changing world.