Infosys Cracks Down on Overwork: Internal Drive Promotes Strict Work-Hour Discipline

In a move that contrasts with founder Narayana Murthy’s 70-hour workweek pitch, Infosys is encouraging its employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance and avoid working extra hours.

The Bengaluru-based IT company has launched an internal campaign urging employees to stick to regular working hours and take necessary breaks, especially during remote work.

Company Sends Personalised Emails to Track Working Hours

As part of the campaign, Infosys has been sending personalised emails to employees whose working hours exceed the company’s standard limit.

According to an employee speaking to The Economic Times, the company expects employees to work for 9.15 hours a day, five days a week. If this limit is exceeded while working from home, the system triggers an alert.

The emails not only highlight the extra hours clocked by employees but also stress the importance of health and maintaining a work-life balance for long-term success.

“While we appreciate your commitment, we also believe that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for both your well-being and long-term professional success,” the HR email reportedly stated.

The communication acknowledges that work demands and deadlines can sometimes lead to longer hours but reminds employees to strive for a balanced schedule to boost productivity and overall happiness.

Regular Breaks and Recharge Time Encouraged

The emails also suggest ways for employees to avoid burnout. They urge staff to take regular breaks during the workday, inform managers if they feel overwhelmed, delegate tasks when necessary, and disconnect from work after hours.

“Take regular breaks during your workday; Let your manager know if you are feeling overwhelmed or need support with reviewing priorities.

Speak to your manager about delegating tasks or redistributing some responsibilities as appropriate; Take time to recharge during off hours, minimising work-related interactions whenever possible,” the emails add.

Initiative Follows Hybrid Work Model Introduction

This initiative was introduced after Infosys adopted a hybrid work model. Since November 20, 2023, the company has required employees to work from the office for at least 10 days a month.

Following this, the HR team started monitoring the amount of time employees spend on work while operating remotely.

Infosys, with a workforce of around 323,500 employees, is now proactively tracking work hours and providing health-focused reminders to employees.

The move comes at a time when rising health issues like heart problems, poor sleep, and stress due to long working hours are becoming common among working professionals.

Narayana Murthy’s 70-Hour Workweek Remark

Infosys’ current approach to work-life balance contrasts sharply with what co-founder Narayana Murthy advocated last year.

Speaking at the Indian Chamber of Commerce’s centenary celebration in Kolkata, Murthy called for young Indians to work harder to help India become a global leader. He suggested that working 70 hours a week was essential to achieve this goal.

“At Infosys, I said we will go to the best and compare ourselves with the best global companies. Once we compare ourselves with the best global companies, I can tell you we Indians have a lot to do.

We have to set our aspirations high because 800 million Indians get free ration. That means 800 million Indians are in poverty. If we are not in a position to work hard, then who will work hard?” Murthy had said.

Murthy’s Clarification on Workweek Comment

Later, Murthy clarified his 70-hour workweek remark, saying that his schedule was his personal choice and should not be imposed on anyone.

“There’s nobody who can say you should do this, you should not do it,” Murthy was quoted as saying earlier this year.

Murthy has consistently expressed his belief in hard work and sacrifice over the concept of work-life balance. In 1986, he publicly opposed India’s transition to a five-day workweek.

Speaking at the CNBC Global Leadership Summit last year, Murthy said, “I don’t believe in this concept of work-life balance,” adding that real progress would only come through sacrifice and relentless effort.

Debate Over Long Working Hours Continues

Murthy’s comments have sparked debate among professionals. While many admire his dedication and contribution to India’s IT sector, others question whether long working hours are sustainable, particularly given rising health concerns in the fast-paced tech industry.

Infosys’ latest measures, meanwhile, signal the company’s effort to promote employee well-being by tracking work hours and encouraging a healthier work routine, even as discussions over work culture in India continue.