HDFC Standard Life is an organization committed to the development of its employees. Ranked #34 in the Great Place to Work® Institute’s study, #1 in the Industry Category of the Insurance sector and recognized in the Special Category of ‘Unique Company Initiative’, the company offers its employees various platforms to grow and develop from.
Culture and values are an integral part of the organization. Says Rajendra Ghag, Executive President, HR, “HDFC is a very strong brand in itself. The legacy of the holding company helps us retain our image as a value based institution. Values and culture are traits which are embedded in our organization and are reinforced often. I believe these concepts should be instilled at an early stage. We have a very strong employee ‘on boarding process’ where every person who joins us is explained the importance of our culture. First impression is always the last impression, and to emphasize this, our first hour of the first day of any new employee starts with a detailed presentation on our company’s history, values and culture. Once the importance is understood it becomes easier to be followed by all.”
Working in an environment of fairness and transparency, the management seeks feedback consistently from all employees through ‘Sparsh’. This is a platform where employees are free to express their ideas and create an atmosphere of open dialogue. The company has a program called GOAL (Go Online and Learn) which provides online courses to employees and can be completed at their convenience and pace. This aids in refreshing knowledge and skills on a continuous basis. Prospective employees also have access to this program to make them feel involved.
In addition to the above, internal promotions are given preference rather than external hiring. Interestingly 30-35%of the vacancies of this organization are filled internally. This reflects positively on the organization and promotes employee morale.
The importance of giving back to the society is well understood by all employees of HDFCSL. The company organized a ‘Joy of Giving Week’ where employees donated ‘in kind’ through a series of events scheduled over a week; this was initiated by Give India. A ‘Creative Auction’ was also organized for raising funds for donation, for instance, an ‘Umbrella Painting’ competition was held at the Corporate Office. Many employees participated in the competition and displayed their painting talents by painting umbrellas. The fund raised through this event was donated to the “Help Trust” for rehabilitation of a sex worker’s child.
We ask a few questions to Rajendra Ghag to gain further insights about what makes HDFSCL an appealing proposition to employees.

What is that one attribute of your organization which seems appealing to prospective employees?
Rajendra Ghag: In simple terms I would say HDFC Standard Life Insurance is one of the few companies perceived by the customer as a long-term value-based company. My own experience says it all. Having joined a year back, my first day in the company was a memorable one. I was comfortable in the environment, all my queries were answered and I was made to feel a part of the organization.

How important is it for HDFC Standard Life to be a great workplace?
Rajendra Ghag: Being a great workplace is a reflection of the company’s work culture and positively reinforces all our people management practices. It is important for us as it is a proof of us going in the right direction. We present a good proposition for employees and are a people-centric organization. This along with our brand and name in the industry makes us an employer of choice.