NEW DELHI: As the controversy surrounding the 90-hour workweek rages on, the conversation is gradually shifting from clocking hours to achieving meaningful results and fostering employee empowerment.
The question of how relevant the debate on working hours versus working results truly is has also grabbed the attention of many, as such discussions often fade away into thin air over time
Sanjiv Puri, Chairman of ITC Ltd, weighed in on the matter, emphasising the importance of aligning workers with the company’s vision over the sheer number of hours worked.
Puri’s take is clear: “It’s not about how many hours you work but about enabling individuals to actualise their potential and contribute to the company’s journey. Flexibility and empowerment matter more.”
Goal-oriented work is important
ITC offers employees the option to work from home two days a week and focuses on goal-oriented reviews rather than micromanaging hours. “It’s about building a sense of purpose, not just meeting a time quota,” he explained, adding that a shared vision of building a “castle” rather than just laying bricks is crucial.
This stands in stark contrast to the remarks by SN Subrahmanyan, Chairman and MD of Larsen & Toubro, who suggested a 90-hour workweek, even sparking a social media uproar when he said, “What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife?”
While Subrahmanyan’s comments drew criticism for their perceived dismissal of work-life balance, a spokesperson for L&T later clarified that his remarks reflected the company’s “larger ambition” for India’s development.
Puri, however, suggested a different approach. “We don’t put a number on work hours. Instead, we focus on empowering employees with the resources and freedom to achieve their goals,” he said.
ITC’s emphasis on “vision, values, and vitality” underscores the company’s goal to inspire passion and purpose in its workforce rather than focusing on rigid schedules.
The debate around the 90-hour workweek raises a larger question: Should companies measure success by hours worked or by the results achieved? As businesses and workers strive to find a balance between productivity and well-being, the conversation may need to move beyond hours entirely.
For now, the focus appears to be shifting toward what truly drives results – empowerment, alignment with company goals, and fostering an environment where employees can thrive, whether they work 90 hours or not.
