Navigating the future of employee-employer relationship dynamics in remote work scenario in India

By Abhishek B Kurdukar

India has recently experienced a significant shift towards remote work, altering how the employment dynamic works. According to independent research last year, a striking 98% of Indian employees aspire to work remotely, for its flexibility, autonomy, and work-life balance. This move to remote work is adopted by employees & employers nimbly. A notable 93% plan to continue remote job interviews, showing a clear acceptance of virtual ecosystems. This transition reflects a willingness to embrace change and recognises remote work as a sustainable option in the upcoming world of business.

Remote work brings professional and personal life closer, blurring the boundaries. It is only logical to understand and address its impact on employee-employer relationships.

The evolution of remote work in India

Businesses embraced flexible work, with many offering permanent or part-time remote options, including leading IT and Tech companies. As per research done in 2023, 12.7% are fully remote, and 28.2% enjoy a hybrid blend, bringing flexibility and maintaining connections while balancing personal and professional commitments.

While remote work offers undeniable flexibility and accessibility benefits, it prevents exposure. Addressing isolation, ensuring effective team communication, and enabling peer learning emerged as impediments. Companies and employees explored solutions, including virtual team-building activities and enhanced communication tools.

The silver lining was found in Technology innovations and HR leader’s emerged role as business partners to boost productivity, acquire & retain talent, and create a happier workforce.

Technology plays a key role in supporting remote work relationships. Companies are showing they’re serious by investing in cloud tools, project software, and cyber defences to keep remote teams thriving.

HR teams evolved as holistic (professional and personal) wellbeing champions. They introduced new-age benefits like wellness, mental health, gadgets and equipment while getting more inclusive with women, the differently abled and more. Leading brands like Microsoft and Pluxee championed open dialogue on mental health through Microsoft Cares and Pluxee Supports Me. Allowing employees at all levels to share personal struggles and receive support.

The future of employee-employer relationship in remote work

Many Indian companies already operate fully remotely, serving as pioneers for others to follow suit, emphasising the effectiveness of such models. In 2023, 72% of employees considered work crucial to their lives, and 61% prioritise a healthy work-life balance.

Employee-employer relationships in remote work require a fresh approach, with trust and communication at its core. Maintaining a sense of belonging and team cohesion is paramount. Recent events have prompted a reassessment of work values and purpose. A sense of belonging is a driving factor in career decisions, with 54% of employees willing to quit if they do not feel a part of their company.

One way is for companies adopting remote work, especially in a managed hybrid model, having teams gather in the office a few days weekly.  Executives foresee additional growth in remote work, signalling a departure from traditional office setups. Anticipations for 2025 suggest that 60 to 90 million Indian employees will work remotely.

This evolution demands robust trust, communication, and alignment of values to nurture successful remote work relationships in the future.

The way forward!

Remote work’s impact on employee-employer relationships is rapidly changing uncovering potential for a productive dynamic. In today’s digital and AI age, nurturing a culture of collaboration, resilience, and empathy is essential for a successful workforce environment.

Businesses can shape this future by embracing innovative technologies and approaches. The key lies in mutual adaptability and a forward-thinking approach to navigating the evolution of employee and employer relationships.

(The author is Mr. Abhishek Kurdukar, who is the Director of Sales at Pluxee India, and the views expressed in this article are his own)