Genpact's New 10-Hour Workday Policy Sparks Employee Outcry and Work-Life Balance Concerns

Global professional services firm Genpact has ignited a significant debate among its workforce with the introduction of a controversial new policy: a mandatory 10-hour workday, reportedly effective from mid-June. This move, which does not appear to include a corresponding increase in base salaries, has left many employees feeling apprehensive, with reports suggesting that failure to meet this extended requirement could lead to performance reviews.

According to a report from The Hindu, Genpact plans to utilize an internal tracking tool to monitor employee productivity by meticulously recording active hours. While the policy extends daily working time, it does offer a carrot: employees who successfully log 10 hours a day can earn up to 500 points monthly, translating to an incentive of Rs 3,000. Furthermore, an additional 5% bonus – roughly Rs 150 – is reportedly on offer for every hour logged beyond the 10-hour mandate.

Confusion and Discontent Brew Among Staff

The new policy has undeniably stirred a wave of unrest and anxiety, particularly within Genpact's Hyderabad office, where the work environment is described as increasingly "tense" and morale has taken a noticeable hit. A significant point of contention for many employees is the informal manner in which this major policy change was communicated. Instead of official HR channels, the information was reportedly disseminated through managers and team leads, leading to widespread confusion and heightened anxiety.

"There’s nothing on paper. It’s all word of mouth. If anyone challenges it, they’re accused of being difficult and risk termination,” a senior recruitment staffer reportedly confided to The Hindu, underscoring the perceived lack of transparency and the fear of reprisal among the workforce.

Employees Take to Social Media to Voice Concerns

Frustrated employees have not shied away from taking their concerns to social media platforms. A particularly poignant LinkedIn post from an assistant manager at Genpact, under the hashtag #For10HrLogin, powerfully questioned the rationale behind the new mandate:

“#For10HrLogin – Is this the new standard or a step backward? As professionals striving for excellence, we’re no strangers to going the extra mile. But mandating a 10-hour login raises some important questions about work-life balance, productivity, and mental health. In today’s world where efficiency and output matter more than screen time, shouldn’t we focus on results, not hours? Extended login hours can lead to burnout, reduced creativity, and disengagement. I urge leadership to reconsider – is this sustainable, and is it truly what drives growth? Open to hearing others’ views. Let’s talk about healthier, smarter ways to work.”

The post quickly garnered attention, with one LinkedIn user sharing it with a pointed caption that resonated with many: “Your 14-hour shift funds their private jet. Keep chasing that fake balance.” This public outcry highlights a growing sentiment among the modern workforce that true productivity should be measured by output and efficiency, rather than merely by hours logged, advocating for a healthier, more sustainable approach to work.