“Employees today are looking for more than just structure—they want flexibility. A rigid 5-day model doesn’t always accommodate the lifestyle changes and expectations of younger talent,” Sarkar says. The traditional model may also be difficult to sustain for companies facing increasing costs and growing demands for talent.
The 6-Day Workweek: A Model of the Past?
In some sectors, particularly in manufacturing and retail, the 6-day workweek is still in place. While it may work in industries requiring continuous operations, Sarkar points out the significant drawbacks, particularly employee burnout, low morale, and high turnover. “Working six days a week leaves employees with limited personal time, which can hurt productivity and morale,” he explains.
The model may have worked in the past, but in today’s competitive job market, where work-life balance is a top priority, it could be pushing employees away.
The Hybrid Work Model: The Future of Work in India
Sarkar’s clear winner? The hybrid work model, which he believes is crucial for driving growth in the Indian job market. The pandemic has reshaped how businesses view work, and now, many are adopting hybrid models that combine remote flexibility with in-office collaboration.
“Hybrid work is the perfect blend of flexibility and productivity. It gives employees the autonomy to manage their time while ensuring that collaboration and communication continue smoothly,” says Sarkar. This model has already proven to boost employee satisfaction and retention, especially among younger workers in sectors like IT and finance.
But the hybrid model isn’t just a win for employees—it’s also a cost-saving solution for businesses, particularly in high-rent cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru, where office space can be expensive. Companies that adopt hybrid work can reduce overhead costs while still maintaining an engaged and productive workforce.
Why Hybrid is the Game Changer for Growth
According to Sarkar, the hybrid model is not just about working from home or in the office—it’s about empowering employees to choose the best work environment for them, leading to increased productivity and higher job satisfaction. Moreover, it opens the door to a wider talent pool, allowing businesses to hire skilled workers from across India, including smaller cities and towns, who were previously out of reach.
However, Sarkar cautions that hybrid work comes with its own set of challenges—communication gaps, ensuring equitable workspaces, and redefining performance metrics are just a few of the hurdles. “Organizations need to invest in technology and adapt their management practices to ensure that remote and in-office employees are equally supported,” he says.
A Call for Change
For organizations looking to thrive in India’s competitive job market, Arghya Sarkar’s advice is clear: Hybrid work is not just a passing trend—it’s a strategic move toward long-term growth, innovation, and employee satisfaction.
As the Founder of Recruitment Mantra, one of Kolkata’s leading recruitment agencies, Sarkar’s insights are grounded in years of experience helping companies across India navigate the evolving job market. His expertise in talent acquisition, HR strategy, and employee engagement makes him a key voice in understanding the future of work in India.
With hybrid work on the rise, businesses that adapt to these changes will not only retain top talent but also set the stage for future success.
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