Wipro Orders Hybrid Work As Other Tech Giants Make Full-time Pants-wearing Mandatory

Indian IT outsourcer Wipro bucked recent trends this week, when it announced it would allow its employees remote work.

HR head Saurabh Govil took to LinkedIn on Tuesday to share the news of the hybrid work policy.

"We expect associates to work from the office premises three days a week, choosing these days based on their need to collaborate," wrote Govil. "Our approach also has the option for associates to seek remote working for specified days in a year, to care for self or as they nurse loved ones back to health."

Govil promoted the policy as not only allowing work-life integration, but also sensitive to – and inclusive of – special needs.

"We trust our associates to do their best work, as they hold themselves accountable," commented Govil.

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The policy doesn't seem much different than what's been in place since late 2023, except it allows more flexibility in grouping the days into a bundle for self or family care.

According to local media, starting October 1 employees could work remotely for up to an additional 30 days per year subject to manager approval. Fifteen days can be taken for those who are unwell, and an additional 15 for those caring for others.

The move stands in contrast to the tech industry trend of calling employees back into the office full-time. Dell issued a full-time five day a week onsite mandate last month, as did Amazon.

However, fellow Indian IT outsourcer HCL asks employees to make their commute three days a week and at least 12 days a month. Those who don't meet that requirement face the unusual consequence of potentially losing access to leave.

HCL reportedly sweetened the deal this week when it announced a 7 percent salary hike for its employees, effective October 2024. Top performers can see an even greater raise of up to 12 to 15 percent.

It's not yet determined how many will see the hike. That number is said to depend partly on the outsourcing giant's review cycle. ®