At a time when discussions about long work hours, including the controversial 90-hour workweek, are making headlines, a recent survey by Randstad India has revealed a major shift in workplace expectations among Indian employees. According to the Randstad India Workmonitor 2025 survey, 52% of Indian employees would quit their jobs if they lacked sufficient flexibility—much higher than the global average of 31%.
Toxic Work Culture and Poor Managerial Relations Driving Resignations
The survey, released on Tuesday, also found that 60% of Indian employees would leave a job if they had a poor relationship with their manager. Additionally, 58% of workers have resigned due to a toxic work environment, compared to 44% globally. Another 53% (against 27% globally) have quit their jobs because they felt uncomfortable sharing their personal opinions at work.
Flexibility is No Longer a Perk, But a Necessity
Viswanath PS, Managing Director & CEO of Randstad India, emphasized that workplace flexibility is now a fundamental expectation across all generations. He stated, “The generational gap in workplace expectations is narrowing. Whether it’s Gen Z entering the workforce, millennials balancing career and personal life, or Gen X in leadership positions, flexibility is a must-have.”
He further noted that organizations must embed flexibility into work design rather than treating it as a bonus. He warned that businesses failing to adapt to these evolving expectations risk losing top talent to competitors offering more personalized and progressive work environments.
Workplace Motivators Are Changing
The survey highlighted that traditional factors like salary are no longer the primary motivators for Indian employees. Instead, factors such as a sense of belonging, learning opportunities, and flexible work arrangements are taking precedence.
- 69% of Indian employees prioritize a sense of belonging, compared to 55% globally.
- 67% of employees would quit their jobs if they lacked learning and development (L&D) opportunities, compared to just 41% globally.
- With AI transforming the job market, 43% of Indian employees consider AI training a crucial skill.
Different Generations, Same Demand for Flexibility
The demand for flexible work schedules is significantly higher in India across all age groups compared to global trends.
- Gen Z (62% vs. 45% globally) seeks flexibility to navigate a competitive job market with long commutes.
- Millennials (66% vs. 39% globally) need work-life balance to manage childcare and household responsibilities.
- Gen X (65% vs. 25% globally) values flexibility to handle strategic leadership responsibilities while maintaining personal well-being.
Unlike in many global markets where hybrid work is widely accepted, India’s unique work culture, infrastructure limitations, and family responsibilities make flexibility not just an option, but a necessity, the survey concluded.
The Future of Work in India
With employee priorities shifting, organizations must rethink their work policies to attract and retain talent. Companies that embrace flexible work models and invest in employee well-being and skill development will be better positioned for long-term success in India’s evolving job market.
