India's economy expanded by an impressive 7.2% in FY 22/23, establishing it as one of the fastest-growing major economies globally. As the country fervently pursues nation-building, organisations face the dual challenge of furthering this goal while prioritising workforce wellbeing and work-life balance. Achieving these aims concurrently is feasible and can lead to sustainable success.

In the rapidly evolving technology sector, where innovation and agility are paramount, integrating productivity with wellbeing is crucial. Organisations must strive not just for growth and national contribution but also for creating a workplace that equally values employee wellbeing, thus promoting both economic prosperity and nation-building.

Taking a closer look at the challenges: 

The International Labour Organisation's (ILO) report reveals a gap between individual aspirations and the current work landscape, how working longer hours than desired negatively affects employees’ work-life balance.   Effectively addressing the challenge of juggling family commitments, grappling with commute issues, and managing personal goals is crucial to establishing a workplace that aligns with individual dreams, empowering employees to make meaningful contributions to the larger cause of nation-building.

What can organisations do? 

An organisation's culture comes to life when there is a well-defined purpose and vision. Recognising that work extends beyond mere routine tasks and financial objectives, acknowledging its capacity to enhance people's lives, serves as a powerful source of inspiration and satisfaction for employees. The convergence of the organisation's common purpose and vision with that of its employees cultivates a contemporary and meaningful culture, fostering alignment in the new-age work environment.

1. Result-Oriented Culture: Shift the focus from the number of hours worked to the outcomes achieved. A result-oriented culture allows individuals to contribute meaningfully while maintaining a balance. This shift demands a recalibration of success metrics, emphasising quality rather than quantity. By adopting this approach, organisations encourage a more purposeful and efficient work environment, where employees are motivated by the value they bring to their tasks and the broader goals of the company.

2. Flexible work arrangements: Embrace and champion flexible work arrangements to accommodate the diverse needs of the workforce. This encompasses options such as remote work, compressed workweeks, or flexitime. By seamlessly integrating these alternatives into the corporate culture, an environment is cultivated where work is harmonised with individual lifestyles and priorities. This not only acknowledges the varying demands of employees but also enhances their overall well-being and engagement, contributing to a more adaptive and responsive organisational ethos.

3. Empowering talent for nation-building growth: In today's dynamic tech landscape, businesses must focus on upskilling their workforce to meet evolving demands. This commitment to employee development fosters innovation, performance, and personal growth, while also contributing to national progress. Aligning internal growth with nation-building, businesses help create a skilled and empowered workforce that drives the country’s development.

Additionally, transforming HR processes and enhancing people-centric programs through a global job framework is vital. This framework aids in workforce planning and skills development and promotes a unified organisational culture. Businesses should also adopt initiatives like mentorship, cross-functional assignments, and, for multinational corporations, employee exchange programs to boost belonging and morale. The importance of rewards and recognition in sustaining this culture and supporting holistic talent development aligned with nation-building cannot be understated.

4. Prioritising employee wellbeing: Make employee wellbeing the norm by implementing comprehensive programs covering physical health, mental wellness, and a supportive work environment. Prioritise employee health as a linchpin for organisational success, creating a reservoir of energy and creativity that propels national goals. Structure policies from physical to virtual setups with a focus on well-being. Encourage employee-led initiatives and volunteer programs for knowledge sharing and connection. For instance, employees leading wellness sessions, like yoga or meditation, not only boost engagement but also foster a strong sense of community and wellbeing.

Also read: Building workplaces where people thrive

5. Tracking the employees’ pulse: Employees invest a significant portion of their mind space thinking about work, underscoring the importance of fostering happiness and connection. Beyond implementing initiatives, organisations must continually assess their impact and be adaptable. Utilising both formal tools like employee engagement surveys and informal methods such as open dialogue, and regular one-on-one check-ins, ensures a comprehensive approach. This transparent communication helps gauge employee well-being, address challenges, and create a supportive work culture. Identifying change champions among employees enhances the approach, creating an environment where everyone feels heard, valued, and motivated to contribute effectively.

6. Inclusive policies: Inspiring inclusivity and diversity is not just a corporate responsibility but a cornerstone for nation-building. Beyond providing equal opportunities, organisations must actively welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds and provide them with an environment where they feel welcomed and they can thrive. Developing policies that address varied workforce needs, including paternity leave and mental health days, reflects a commitment to holistic employee wellbeing. An inclusive and diverse culture ensures a resilient and engaged workforce, contributing not only to organisational success but also to the broader growth and prosperity of the nation.

As the nation's economy grows, the effort to build the nation should include the dreams and well-being of everyone. It's important to understand that the goals of a prosperous nation and the hopes of its diverse workforce are linked. They together form a journey towards collective success. Creating a unified vision for the workforce means fostering this unity with clear policies, open communication, and a focus on the comprehensive growth of all members. This approach marks the true path to sustained and inclusive success.

Furthermore, the health of a nation shouldn't be measured just by GDP. True nation-building values the prosperity and happiness of its people above material gains, highlighting that the wellbeing and satisfaction of the workforce are crucial for a nation's genuine success.