Indian employees reported feeling either ‘struggling’ or ‘suffering’ at work in latest report

The Gallup Global Workplace Report 2024 published recently has unveiled a startling reality about the state of employee well-being in India. According to the comprehensive study, an overwhelming 86% of Indian employees reported feeling either ‘struggling’ or ‘suffering’ in their current roles, painting a grim picture of the nation’s workforce. 

The report highlighted, “Globally, employee wellbeing declined in 2023 from 35% to 34%. Gallup’s well being item measures overall life evaluation, combining present and future self-reflection. The decline in 2023 was felt by younger workers under 35.”

This alarming statistic not only highlights the pressing need for organisations to prioritise employee welfare but also raises critical questions about the underlying factors contributing to this widespread sense of dissatisfaction and distress. 

Primary factors behind dissatisfaction

Gurleen Baruah, organisational psychologist at That Culture Thing, says, “Based on the Gallup Global Workplace Report 2024, several key factors contribute to the high percentage of Indian employees feeling ‘struggling’ or ‘suffering’ in the workplace.”

Low employee engagement: In India, only 26% of employees are engaged at work, indicating widespread disconnection due to poor management practices, lack of recognition, and limited growth opportunities.

High levels of negative emotions: Many Indian employees report daily experiences of stress (31%), anger (34%), sadness (42%), and loneliness (29%), highlighting a stressful work environment with insufficient support systems and demanding job conditions.

Unsatisfactory job climate: Despite economic challenges, only 48% of Indian employees believe it’s a good time to find a job, reflecting high job insecurity and economic uncertainty.

Providing mental health allowances, access to counselling services, and creating a supportive environment to discuss mental health openly can help mitigate stress (Source: Freepik)

Economic and labour conditions: Economic instability and inadequate labour protections contribute to feelings of vulnerability among Indian employees, impacting job satisfaction and overall well-being.

Daily stress and work-life imbalance: Long working hours, coupled with inadequate leave policies, contribute to significant stress levels among Indian employees, making it difficult to achieve a healthy work-life balance.

Cultural and societal pressures: Indian workplaces often face high societal expectations and cultural norms around work and success, which can exacerbate stress and strain employee well-being.

Gender and age disparities: Women and younger employees in India frequently encounter discrimination and unequal treatment, leading to higher levels of stress and dissatisfaction compared to their counterparts.

Poor management and leadership: Ineffective leadership, lack of support, and communication gaps contribute to feelings of neglect and disengagement among Indian employees.

Inadequate labour protections: Issues such as unfair wages, unsafe working conditions, and insufficient social security measures further undermine employee satisfaction and contribute to a sense of insecurity.

Persistent negative emotions: The prevalence of negative emotions such as loneliness, anger, and sadness underscores the need for improved mental health support and a more positive work environment in India.

Strategies or interventions have been effective in improving workplace conditions and employee morale in Indian organisations

“Improving workplace conditions and enhancing employee morale in Indian organisations requires a multifaceted approach that addresses various aspects of work culture, benefits, and organisational practices,” says Baruah. 

Based on proven strategies and interventions, here are several effective measures:

*Flexible work arrangements: Implementing flexible working hours and remote work options can significantly benefit employees, especially young mothers and caregivers. This flexibility supports better work-life balance, reduces commute stress, and enhances productivity.

*Enhanced mental health support: Providing mental health allowances, access to counselling services, and creating a supportive environment to discuss mental health openly can help mitigate stress and improve overall well-being.

*Comprehensive leave policies: Offering generous maternity and paternity leave benefits ensures that employees can manage family responsibilities without compromising their careers. Additionally, policies supporting caregivers and those facing personal emergencies foster a compassionate workplace culture.

*Fair compensation and wage reviews: Regularly reviewing salary structures to ensure equitable compensation, particularly addressing the widening gap between CEO salaries and lower-level employees’ wages, helps in retaining talent and boosting morale amid rising inflation.

*Cultural practices and diversity initiatives: Promoting inclusive practices, celebrating diversity, and fostering a respectful workplace culture where all voices are heard and valued contributes to a more engaged and motivated workforce.

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