Discussing the New Workplace Policy: Mandatory Discord Voice Calls

Lately I have been going to office often and every time I try to focus and work, some or the other person is on a teams calls talking out loudly. It was really very difficult to work for me. Just curious if you guys also feel the same way or have I just gone all very comfortable working alone at home so even a work calls of other people are annoying me?

TCS stands for Toxic Company Supporters.

The paradigm shift towards remote work, catalyzed by the global COVID-19 pandemic, has thrust organizations and individuals into uncharted territory, prompting a profound reevaluation of traditional work arrangements and inspiring spirited debates about the long-term viability of remote work models. While the immediate benefits of remote work are evident - the elimination of commutes, increased flexibility, and a purported boost in productivity - a closer examination reveals a complex tapestry of opportunities and challenges that extend far beyond the confines of the home office. On one hand, remote work offers the tantalizing prospect of a more balanced, fulfilling work-life integration, liberating individuals from the constraints of the nine-to-five grind and empowering them to craft their own schedules. It has democratized access to employment opportunities, enabling organizations to tap into talent pools spanning geographical boundaries and fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion. Moreover, the reduction in commuting has yielded environmental benefits, with decreased carbon emissions and a reduction in traffic congestion heralding a potential shift towards a more sustainable future. However, amidst the celebration of progress, there lies a shadowy underbelly of challenges that threaten to undermine the utopian vision of remote work. The pervasive sense of isolation that accompanies prolonged periods of remote work can exact a toll on mental health and well-being, eroding the sense of camaraderie and social cohesion that often flourishes in the physical workplace. The blurring of boundaries between work and personal life, exacerbated by the omnipresence of digital devices and the relentless march of virtual meetings, has rendered the elusive quest for work-life balance an ever more elusive pursuit. Thoughts?

Discussion has shifted to productivity in work from office vs work from home debate. I feel it’s a narrative which is kind of created by employers and their pr firms. In reality it’s more about the power dynamics between employers and employees. Employers are reclaiming control over their workforce by making work from office mandatory. By enforcing work from office policies, companies are subtly reminding employees of the limited job market, making them feel tethered to their current positions.

With all this talk about quiet quitting and burnout, it seems like the traditional 9-5 grind is losing its appeal. I've noticed more of my colleagues advocating for flexible schedules and remote work options. Has this shift in priorities played out in your workplace too? How has your company responded to demands for better work-life balance? Do you think this is the new normal, or just a temporary reaction to the pandemic?

Let me explain, managers or senior folks who reply/slack/email or do any form of communication outside working hours and especially over weekends… I hate it. If u do it without the counter party explicitly expressing such urgency then you are way worse. Just because their current lifestyle or situation allows them to do it… They do it without a second thought. They do not realize that this sets the benchmark or expectations for others who may not be able or like to do same. You might say they’re not coercing others to do it then what’s the harm? Well this little thing is what sets the chain reaction to unhealthy WLB. The stakeholders or their heads get the wrong impression and create unhealthy expectation from others. This is just a rant and if u are such a person… Stop doing it without thinking of its unintended consequences.

Been thinking about how remote work has changed the game for new hires. At my company, we've had to completely overhaul our onboarding process. It's been a real challenge trying to make newbies feel part of the team when they've never even set foot in our office. We've tried virtual coffee chats and online team-building activities, but it's not quite the same. How has your company handled this? Have you found any creative ways to build company culture in a remote setting?

So, I joined this company located in Delhi last year from Bangalore as a permanent WFH employee. Initial 6 months were fine, even though I was aware they had pre-installed tracking software called "Teramind" while sending the laptop! But in the last 3 months the work culture or environment has completely flipped and turned into Toxic. First they made us install a remote tracking software called "Hubstaff" which tracks keyboard and mouse activity and time, and takes 4 screenshots every 10 minutes. Then they made it compulsory 8 hours a day excluding any break like lunch or tea. This month they tied work hours with Salary and started deducting the entire day's pay even if you are short by like half an hour! Almost all employees know they need to leave but are kinda stuck due to the current job market situation. I'M thinking of quitting without finding another job now, I'm just mentally tired and frustrated with the situation I find myself in. All my emotional energy is spent, I just don't know what to do😞

So, this company I have an offer from seems great culture wise. I asked some members for red flags and they said its a software they use that tracks them for 8 hours and takes screenshots every 10 minutes. I have no experience working in companies with this implementation earlier. Can anyone shed some light on whether this may be a deal breaker or not? Heard mix responses from current employees that it’s hard to clock 40-42 hours a week and takes away our personal freedom. What are the thoughts?