Gurugram, October 29, 2024 – As India’s festive season lights up, the nation’s workforce is looking to their workplaces not only as spaces for productivity but also as hubs for flexibility, celebration, and inclusivity. A recent survey conducted in October 2024 by The Office Pass (TOP), a leading flexible office space provider, saw the participation of 3,024 employees across various sectors. The findings reveal that employees are increasingly prioritizing work-life balance, festive celebrations, and inclusivity. With the demand for flexible arrangements and seasonal engagement growing, TOP’s survey uncovers a roadmap for companies aiming to adapt to these expectations, boost morale, and enhance team cohesion during one of the year’s busiest times.
The survey gathered insights from corporate leaders and employees, shining a spotlight on emerging trends and expectations within Indian workplaces. As industries embrace the festive spirit, employers are encouraged to integrate flexible policies, celebrations, and inclusive practices to foster a happier, more motivated workforce.
5 Insights on What is the Expectations of Employees during Holiday Season
- Rising Demand for Flexible Work Hours
- Festive Celebrations and Team-Building Activities
- Enhanced Workloads Demand Flexible Policies
- Bonuses and Gifts: Tokens of Appreciation and Motivation
- Inclusivity as a Festive Priority
1. Rising Demand for Flexible Work Hours
According to the survey, a significant 47% of respondents expect their employers to offer flexible hours as the festive season approaches. For employees, having the flexibility to adjust their work schedules to accommodate holiday celebrations and family commitments is essential. Companies offering this adaptability are witnessing higher levels of productivity, employee satisfaction, and loyalty. As work and personal lives blend during the holiday season, flexible hours allow employees to balance responsibilities effectively while feeling valued and supported by their organization.
“Flexible work schedules are no longer a luxury but a necessity, especially during the festive season,” said Aditya Verma, Founder and CEO of The Office Pass. “Businesses that acknowledge this shift towards work-life balance and implement accommodating policies are seeing remarkable results. This approach positively impacts employees’ morale and directly influences organizational productivity.”
2. Festive Celebrations and Team-Building Activities
Celebrating festivals at work is not just about tradition—it has become an essential part of workplace culture that fosters a sense of belonging and collaboration. The survey found that 45% of employees expressed a desire for team-building activities during this period. Incorporating team-building exercises into the festive calendar allows employees to build stronger connections with colleagues and take a refreshing break from routine tasks.
The significance of these celebrations extends beyond camaraderie. In India, where festivals like Diwali and Dusshera are widely observed, bringing cultural festivities into the workplace creates a familiar, positive environment that nurtures employee loyalty and engagement. Employees often enjoy traditional Indian attire, cuisine, and decor at work, celebrating in ways that reflect their roots while forming bonds that contribute to a stronger organizational culture.
Verma adds, “For companies, hosting festive celebrations is an excellent way to bring teams together, create shared experiences, and recognize the diversity within the organization. It allows us to connect with employees on a personal level, fostering an inclusive workplace culture.”
3. Enhanced Workloads Demand Flexible Policies
The survey indicates that for most employees, workloads remain the same or even increase during the festive season. This situation underscores the importance of policies that allow for flexibility and creativity in managing responsibilities, particularly during a time when personal and work obligations are at their peak. Allowing employees some control over their schedules has been proven to help them manage these demands more effectively while maintaining high levels of productivity.
Flexible office spaces, a key offering of TOP, provide the infrastructure that companies need to support such adaptable schedules. With open work areas, modular meeting rooms, and tech-friendly facilities, these spaces are designed to accommodate varying work styles and schedules, enhancing employee experience and operational efficiency.
4. Bonuses and Gifts: Tokens of Appreciation and Motivation
In addition to flexibility and celebrations, employees anticipate seasonal rewards that acknowledge their hard work and dedication. A substantial 62% of respondents believe that bonuses contribute to the festive atmosphere, while 22% feel that gift vouchers have a similar positive impact. Such gestures of appreciation reinforce employees’ sense of value within the organization, motivating them to continue their contributions toward collective goals.
These bonuses and vouchers not only add to the festive spirit but also act as a retention strategy, as employees who feel valued are more likely to remain loyal to their employers. With heightened expenses typical during the holiday season, a bonus or gift can make a meaningful difference, leaving employees feeling both acknowledged and celebrated.
5. Inclusivity as a Festive Priority
An inclusive workplace is fundamental to employee satisfaction, and it becomes even more vital during the festive season. According to the survey, employees are keen to work in environments where inclusivity and equality are actively promoted, allowing them to feel comfortable in expressing opinions and sharing ideas. This inclusivity ensures that every team member feels valued, contributing to a culture of mutual respect and shared purpose.
As employees align themselves with the core values of their organization, they are more likely to engage and connect meaningfully with their colleagues. This inclusivity forms the backbone of a workplace where people can thrive, particularly during high-stress periods like the festive season.
As organizations recognize the benefits of flexible and inclusive work arrangements, coworking spaces are becoming the ideal solution for businesses seeking to retain talent, improve productivity, and create a positive workplace culture. Companies that adopt this approach are experiencing a significant boost in employee morale, helping to keep teams motivated and engaged through both the festive period and beyond.
About The Office Pass (TOP)
The Office Pass (TOP) is a premier provider of coworking and flexible office spaces in Delhi NCR, offering adaptable environments for teams of all sizes. With a focus on creating inclusive, efficient, and vibrant workspaces, TOP is committed to helping organizations succeed by meeting the needs of today’s dynamic workforce. From flexible work schedules to team-building activities and community-driven celebrations, TOP’s offices are tailored to create a work culture that supports well-being and productivity.
