A few months ago, I joined TCS with excitement, eager to work on new projects. But after finishing my first assignment, I was placed on the bench—a situation many employees face between projects. At first, I was concerned, not sure how long I could sit on the bench without getting in trouble. I realised that's a phase everyone passes through, although it can feel disturbing after asking colleagues for clarity on the TCS Bench policy.
From my experience, being on the bench for a few weeks to a few months is common. TCS provides time to upskill during this period, but extended bench time can be concerning. While getting fired for being on the bench isn't the norm, TCS prioritises action—taking courses, improving skills, and being open to new roles to stay relevant. Continuous upskilling reduces any potential risks tied to long-term benching.