13 Chapter IV
13 Chapter IV
13 Chapter IV
4.0 INTRODUCTION:
The main objective of the present study is to find out the socio-
psychological determinants of the quality of work-life of employees working in
the BPO industry in Hyderabad. As may be recalled, the present research has
thirteen objectives and twelve hypotheses to ascertain the socio-psychological
factors which contribute to the quality of work life of BPO employees.
As mentioned above, the present chapter deals with the analysis and
interpretation of the data. This was done in two sections; the first section of
analysis presents descriptive statistics of the respondents (n=500) in terms of
their demographic characteristics. The second section of analysis deals with
inferential statistics. This section comprises six different sub-sections. The first
sub-section presents the results of t test done to find out the significance of
difference between male and female employees, married and unmarried,
technical and non-technical employees with regard to the select socio-
psychological variables under study. The second sub-section presents the results
of ANOVA by using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). ANOVA is done to
find out the relation between demographic variables and quality of work-life of
232
employees. The third subsection deals with chi-square analysis which tests the
association between demographic factors and quality of work-life of employees.
The fourth sub-section deals with Friedman test. This was done to find out the
significance of difference in the mean ranks of the employees with regard to the
socio-psychological factors of QWL. The fifth sub-section presents the results of
correlation (Pearson r) between socio-psychological variables and quality of
work-life variables, which is followed by regression analysis. The sixth sub-
section presents the results of the empirical analysis of the proposed conceptual
model using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The chapter concludes
establishing the significance of the model developed by the researcher which is
tested in the study.
SECTION 1
233
Table 4.1.1.1
Table 4.1.1.1 shows that 78.2% of the BPO employees under study are
below 30 years of age, 19.6% are between 31 and 45 years of age and 2.2% of
the employees are above 45 years of age. As mentioned in Chapter 3, BPO
industry is a major employer of the young adults of India. It is also to be noted
that employees above the age of 45 years is only 2.2%.
Table 4.1.1.2
Table 4.1.1.2 shows that 45.2% of employees are male and 54.8%
are female. It is clear that BPO industry is a source of employment not only for
male professionals but also for female professionals of the country.
234
Table 4.1.1.3
Table 4.1.1.3 shows that out of 500 employees studied, 70.8% of them are
unmarried and 29.2% of them are married. Since 78.2% of the employees are
under the age of 30 (Table 4.1.1.1.), chances are there that most of them are
unmarried.
Table 4.1.1.4
Educational
Frequency Percentage
Qualification
Others 21 4.2
Table 4.1.1.4 shows that 19.4% are qualified up to H.Sc, 52.8 % are under
graduates, 23.6% are post graduates and 4.2% are others (other qualifications).
Out of 500 respondents, 264 (52.8%) are undergraduates. They might be from
different disciplines like Engineering, Arts, Science, Humanities, Commerce and
235
Management, specifically trained to work in the various functional departments
of BPOs.
Table 4.1.1.7 shows that 131 (26.2%) are in technical jobs and 369
(73.8%) are in non-technical jobs. Employees doing technical jobs are generally
engineers, either degree holders or diploma holders. Those in non-technical jobs
are graduates or postgraduates from different streams like Arts, Science,
Commerce and Management.
Table 4.1.1.6
Monthly
Income Frequency Percentage
20,001-30,000 67 13.4
Table 4.1.1.8 shows that 65.2% have income (monthly salary) below
Rs.10, 000, 21.4% have income between Rs.10, 001 and 20,000 and 13.4% have
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income between Rs.20, 001 and 30,000. It is quite surprising to note that majority
of the employees who participated in this survey have income below Rs.10, 000
only, to live in a city like Hyderabad.
Table 4.1.1.7
Total work
Frequency Percentage
experience in years
Above 6 86 17.2
From Table 4.1.1.9 it is clear that 55% of the employees have below 2
years of total work experience, 27.8% have 2-6 years of work experience and
17.2% have more than 6 years of total work experience. This distribution of
sample shows that most of the employees who participated in this survey are
youngsters with minimum experience.
237
Table 4.1.1.8
Experience in the
present
Frequency Percentage
organization in
years
Above 6 60 12.0
Table 4.1.1.10 shows that 63.2% have below 2 years of experience in the
present organization, 24.8% have 2-6 years of experience in the present
organization and 12.0% have more than 6 years of experience in the present
organization. A look at the table reveals that out of 500 employees, 316 (63.2%)
have experience below 2 years, only 60 employees (12%) have experience above
six years. It is an indication of the alarming rate of attrition in the BPO sector.
Section 2
4.2.1 t test
In this subsection of analysis, t test is done. t test is used to find out the
significance of difference between means of two independent samples. The two
independent samples considered in this study are male (n=226) and female
238
(n=274), married (146) and unmarried (354) and technical (131) and non-
technical (369).
239
Table 4.2.1.1
t test for significance of difference between male and female employees with
respect to the dimensions of socio-psychological factors of QWL
Socio-Psychological
Gender Mean SD t value P value
factors
Leadership Style of Male 22.64 3.735
0.946 0.345
managers/team leaders Female
22.95 3.514
Work Culture Male 23.96 3.488 1.426 0.154
Female 24.41 3.447
Employee Attitude to Male 22.29 3.388
0.832 0.406
Job Female
22.53 3.185
Occupational Self Male 24.10 3.412
0.657 0.511
Efficacy Female
23.91 3.118
Employee Participation Male 17.48 5.523
1.861 0.063
in Non-Work Related Female
18.35 4.900
Activities
Self-Concept Male 24.81 3.107 3.101 0.002**
Female 23.97 2.934
Employee Perception Male
11.67 2.118 2.540 0.011*
of the Company
Female 12.10 1.663
0.013*
Quality of Work-Life Male 58.00 8.096 0.734
Female 57.46 8.369
Employee Satisfaction Male 7.16 1.533 1.175 0.241
Female 7.31 1.325
Employee Performance Male 10.87 2.345 1.273 0.204
Female 11.13 2.208
** Significant at 1%level
* Significant at 5% level
Table 4.2.1.1 reveals that p value is greater than 0.05 for leadership style
(0.345), work culture (0.154), employee attitude to job (0.406), occupational self-
efficacy (0.511) and employee participation in non-work related activities
(0.063). Since P value is greater than 0.05, the null hypothesis is accepted at five
percent level of significance. Hence it is concluded that there is no significant
difference between leadership styles, work culture, employee attitude to their job,
240
occupational self efficacy, employee participation in non-work related activities
and gender. Since P value is less than 0.01, the null hypothesis is rejected at 1
percent level of significance with regard to self concept (0.002). Hence there is
significant difference between male and female employees with respect to self
concept dimension of socio-psychological factors of QWL. Based on mean score,
it is found that the mean value of the self concept scores of male employee is
24.81 and that of female is 23.97. It means that male employees have higher self-
concept than female employees. This difference is statistically significant. Why
do female employees have lower self-concept than their male counterparts? This
could be due to the typical traditional upbringing of girls in Indian families.
Indian culture, even now, encourages and expects submissiveness on part of
women which may be a reason for their low self concept. Girls in India are not
groomed to be assertive, neither is it considered as a feminine personality trait.
Low assertiveness or lack of it is taken as a sign of modesty of Indian female. On
the other hand, boys are brought up to be assertive and it is considered as a
masculine personality trait. In this highly enlightened era, where the aspirations
of both men and women are aroused through the spread of mass education, this
difference in the perception of ones self concept is not acceptable. Women BPO
employees should be trained to realistically evaluate themselves, not to
undermine themselves. They should know their strengths and shortcomings. This
knowledge will help them to grow further, not only in their professional life but
also in their personal life. In the study of Budhwar et al (2009), it was found that
BPO jobs, particularly, call center jobs, are characterized by monotonous work,
stressful work environment and adverse working conditions. This kind of work
environment which prevails in BPO companies may have more negative impact
on the self-concept of women employees than their male counter parts.
Since P value (0.011) is less than 0.05, the null hypothesis is rejected at 5
percent level of significance with regard to employee perception of the company.
Hence there is significant difference between male and female employees with
241
regard to their perception of the company. Based on mean score, female
employees have better perception (12.10) than male employees (11.67). What
could be the reason for this difference in male and female perception about their
company? The survey carried out by Bhuyar et al (2008), in Pune and Mumbai
to find out the mental, physical and social health problems of call centre workers
found majority of the workers, particularly male employees, face sleep
disturbances associated with mental stress and anxiety, circadian rhythm
disturbances due to night shifts, physical problems like muscular-skeletal
disorders, obesity, eye and hearing problems and psycho-social problems like
family life disruption, use of tobacco and alcohol and faulty eating habits. This
might have led the male employees to have low perception about their company.
Findings of the study also reveal that the perception of male and female
employees with respect to their quality of work life is different. Mean score of
male employees is 58 and that of female is 57.46. Male employees perception
about their company also is lower than female employees as is found in the
previous analysis. Male employees may opt for night shifts and due to family
commitments female employees may prefer day shifts. Employees who opt for
night shifts face health related problems and associated ailments. This could be a
reason for their low perception about the quality of their work life. Gupta (2008)
in her study on stress among BPO employees stated that because of pressure in
dealing with their clients day and night, the BPO employees could not balance
their professional and personal lives. The study of Thavannoor and Rajagopal
(2008) conducted to identify the factors which contribute to work life imbalance
of executives in IT sector in Bangalore city revealed that less time for self and
family, regularly doing office work at home, work delegating difficulty, work
more than 55 hours per week and week-end work were found to contribute to the
work-life imbalance of the employees. These findings are applicable to the ITES-
BPO employees as well. As Ballou et al., (2007) observed, the increased
complexity of modern business in the era of global competition has led to
242
increased stress for all participants. The male employees might be getting more
affected by this increased complexity of modern business.
243
climate and teacher morale in the high schools of Jharkhand revealed that female
teachers had better attitude to their job than male teachers, which is also
contradictory to the present finding.
244
Table.4.2.1.2
Table 4.2.1.2 reveals that p value is less than 0.01 for leadership styles
(0.000), work culture (0.000) and occupational self-efficacy (0.004). Since P
value is less than 0.01, the null hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of
significance with regard to leadership styles, work culture and occupational self
efficacy. Hence it is concluded that there is significant difference between
married and unmarried employees with respect to the above mentioned socio-
245
psychological factors of QWL. Based on mean score, unmarried employees have
more perception on leadership styles (23.21), work culture (24.56) and
occupational self efficacy (24.26) than married employees. The mean scores of
married employees on leadership style is 21.85, work culture is 23.35 and
occupational self-efficacy is 23.35. Why do unmarried employees have better
perception than married employees on these dimensions of quality of work life?
Unmarried employees are free from the hassles of family life, like taking
care of the spouse and children. Because of the commitments in family circle,
married employees might be finding it difficult to strike a balance between career
life and family life. Work life balance is a major issue for them. This has an
impact on their perception with regard to the work culture of the company where
they work. Lack of work life balance impact their self efficacy and the attitude
they hold about the leadership provided by their managers/team leaders. HR
department of the company should look into this issue seriously and see that the
married employees maintain a happy balance between their career life and family
life. This would help to reduce the alarming rate of attrition in BPO industry. A
similar finding is reported by George (2012). In his study conducted in Toms
pipes Pvt. Ltd. in Kerala, it was found that unmarried employees had better
perception with regard to the leadership and work culture dimension of quality of
work life than married employees.
Since P value is less than 0.05, the null hypothesis is rejected at 5 percent
level of significance and hence it is concluded that there is significant difference
between married and unmarried employees with regard to employee attitude
towards job (p value 0.015) and employee perception about the company (p value
0.040). Based on mean score, unmarried employees have better perception on
employee attitude towards job (22.65) and employee perception about the
company (12.02) than married employees. The mean scores of married
employees on these two dimensions of quality of work-life is 21.87 and 11.64
respectively. The reason for this difference could be, as mentioned above,
246
employees in family mode are tied up with other commitments. This has an
impact on their attitude to the job which they do and finally their perception
about the company where they work.
247
for themselves, their family and children and for other social obligations; in the
case of unmarried employees, they prefer to spend their weekend for self and
friends, their parents and siblings. Since p value (0.343) is greater than 0.05, the
null hypothesis is accepted and it is concluded that there is no significant
difference between married and unmarried employees with regard to the
perception of their quality of work life. Both married and unmarried employees
have the same perception with regard to their quality of work life. The reason
could be both married and unmarried employees working in BPO industry are
exposed to the same work environment, hence the same opinion. Based on the
mean scores it is found that unmarried employees perception of their quality of
work life is slightly higher than married employees. The mean scores of married
and unmarried employees on QWL are 57.16 and 57.93 respectively. But this
difference is not statistically significant.
248
and wards have no relationships with the QWL. Hammig and George (2009)
investigated the prevalence and mental health effects of an unequal work-life
balance including potential gender differences. It was found that for both
genders, work-life imbalance turned out to be a risk factor affecting mental
health. The study conducted by Ongori and Evans (2008) among the employees
working in public sector organizations in Botswana found that the stress at work
affects the employees in many ways leading to poor quality of work life.
According to them, stress is the main reason for employee turnover in most of the
organizations. They suggested that managers should develop the appropriate
measures to minimize occupational stress.
249
Table 4.2.1.3
Table 4.1.2.3 reveals that p value is less than 0.01 for employee
participation in non-work related activities (0.000). Since P value is less than
0.01, the null hypothesis is rejected at one percent level of significance and hence
it is concluded that there is significant difference between technical and non
technical employees with regard to employee participation in non work related
activities dimension of QWL. Based on mean score, technical employees
(19.43) have higher perception on employee participation in non-work related
250
activities than non technical employees (17.44). In BPOs, employees performing
technical jobs, after a period of time, stoop into monotony and boredom due to
the nature of the work they do. Participation in non-work related activities such
as cultural programs, events like birthday, promotion, wedding anniversary,
picnics and tours organized by the company on holidays might be of interest to
them. These occasions give them opportunity to share their concerns with co-
workers from different departments and satisfy their social needs. Company can
organize such programs whenever possible, to keep the employees happy
particularly those who do technical jobs.
It is also revealed that p value is less than 0.05 with regard to leadership
style (0.037), and occupational self-efficacy (0.013). Since P value is less than
0.05, the null hypothesis is rejected at 5 percent level of significance with regard
to leadership styles and occupational self efficacy. Hence it is concluded that
there is significant difference between technical and non technical employees
with regard to the above mentioned factors. Based on mean score, non technical
employees have higher perception on these factors (23.01, 24.21) than technical
employees (22.24, 23.39).
Since p value is greater than 0.05, the null hypothesis is accepted at five
percent level of significance with regard to employee perception about the
company (0.060) and hence it is concluded that there is no significant difference
between technical and non technical employees with regard to employee
perception about their company. Based on mean score, non technical employees
(12.00) have higher perception about their company than technical employees
(11.64). Since p value is greater than 0.05, the null hypothesis is accepted at
five percent level of significance with regard to quality of work life of employees
(0.227). Hence it is concluded that there is no significant difference between
technical and non-technical employees with regard to their perception on their
quality of work life. Based on the mean score, technical employees have higher
perception about their quality of work-life (58.45) than non-technical employees
251
(57.44). This difference is not statistically significant. Irrespective of the job they
do, both the technical and non-technical employees have the same perception
about the work life quality they experience in the organization. The work
environment, the HR policies, the rules and regulations of the company have the
same impact on technical and non-technical employees. As Mariammal (2012)
puts it, preoccupation with tight work schedules, offering time bound business
solutions to varied and complex problems within the deadlines etc. are typical
work life which is characteristic of IT-ITES-BPO professionals, whether
technical or non-technical. In her study it was found out that outsourcing had a
positive effect on morale and job security and a negative effect on job
satisfaction and intention to leave, which is only partially true with regard to the
findings of the present study.
Various health issues that came of BPO industry have been captured and
analyzed in the study conducted by Chavan and Potdar (2011). The health issues
that came to light are stress, sleeplessness, headache, fatigue, sense of exhaustion
and lack of concentration. It was also found that a number of factors like
hindrance in personal life, physically tiring nature of work, lack of growth
opportunity, non-conducive policies and procedures are some of the reasons for
employees to leave the industry/company. Majority of the employees complained
of headache and digestive disorders. Almost everyone working in this industry
stressed on having provision for power naps of 10-15 minutes. The companies
should take the various health issues of their employees very seriously and make
provisions in their HR policies to safeguard the physical and mental wellbeing of
their employees. It is all about the dreams, career aspirations and life goals of the
young professionals of the country.
252
4.2.2 ANOVA
253
Table.4.2.2.1
ANOVA for significant difference among age groups with respect to socio-
psychological factors of QWL.
Socio-
Age group in
psychological Mean SD F value P value
years
factors
Leadership Below 30 23.10b 3.57 6.310 0.002**
Style 31-45 21.90ab 3.43
Above 45 20.73a 4.92
Below 30 24.46b 3.46 5.522 0.004**
Work Culture
31-45 23.17a 3.41
Above 45 24.36b 2.76
Employee Below 30 22.51b 3.09 3.042 0.049*
Attitude to Job 31-45 21.89a 3.87
Above 45 24.18b 3.06
Occupational Below 30 24.23b 3.10 6.158 0.002**
Self Efficacy 31-45 22.98a 3.59
Above 45 24.73b 3.58
Employee Below 30 17.79a 4.92
Participation in 31-45 18.10a 6.12 4.945 0.007**
Non-Work
Related Above 45 22.73b 3.69
Activities
Self Concept Below 30 24.34 2.99 .138 0.871
31-45 24.38 3.33
Above 45 24.82 1.66
Employee Below 30 12.00 1.89 2.272 0.104
Perception 31-45 11.58 1.82
Above 45 11.45 2.16
Quality of Below 30 57.89 8.20 1.704 0.183
Work-Life 31-45 56.61 8.23
Above 45 60.73 9.03
Employee Below 30 7.31 1.40 0.117
Satisfaction 31-45 6.98 1.45 2.153
Above 45 7.36 1.74
Employee Below 30 11.09a 2.13 0.021*
Performance 31-45 10.56a 2.68 3.908
Above 45 12.27b 2.57
Note: Different alphabets between age denotes significance at 5 % level using
Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT)
254
Since P value is less than 0.01, the null hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent
level of significance with regard to leadership styles (0.002), work culture
(0.004), occupational self efficacy (0.002) and employee participation in non-
work related activities (0.007). Hence it is concluded that there is significant
difference among age groups with respect to these socio-psychological factors.
Based on Duncan Multiple Range Test, the age group below 30 years has
significantly higher perceptions on socio-psychological factor of leadership style
(23.10), than above 45 (20.73) but between 31-45 years of age (21.90),
employees are not significantly different with other groups . The age group
below 30 (24.46) and above 45(24.36) significantly differs with 31-45 age group
(23.17) at 5% level for work culture. The age group 31-45 (22.98) significantly
differs with below 30 (24.23) and above 45 (24.73) years of age group at 5
percent level for occupational self efficacy. The age group below 30 (17.79) and
31-45 (18.10) age groups significantly differs with above 45 age group (22.73) at
5 percent level for the factor employee participation in non-work related
activities.
Since P value is less than 0.05, the null hypothesis is rejected at 5 percent
level of significance with regard to employee attitude to job (0.049) and
employee performance (0.021) and hence it is concluded that there is significant
difference between age groups with respect to employee attitude towards job and
employee performance. Based on Duncan Multiple Range Test, the age group
31-45 (21.89) significantly differs with below 30 (22.51) and above 45(24.18)
age group at 5 percent level on their attitude to job. Based on DMRT, the age
group above 45 (12.27) significantly differs with below 30 (11.09) and age group
31- 45 (10.56) at 5 percent level on employee performance.
255
concluded that there is no significant difference among age groups with respect
to self concept, employee perception, QWL, and employee satisfaction.
The study reveals that there is significant difference among age groups
with respect to the socio-psychological factors of leadership styles, work culture,
occupational self efficacy and employee participation in non-work related
activities at 1 percent level. It is also found that there is significant difference
between age groups with respect to employee attitude towards job and employee
performance at 5 percent level. Age group below 30 has significantly higher
perception on leadership style of their managers/team leaders compared to the
other two age groups considered in this study. A worth noticing fact about BPOs
is that the managers/team leaders are young unlike in many other industries. The
age difference between the team leaders and the team members might be
negligible, as such; the team leaders treat their team members on an equal
footing. This could be the reason why employees below 30 years of age have
higher perception about the leadership style of their managers/team leaders.
256
considered in the present study were up to HSC, UG, PG and others. The mean
scores of the employees of different educational qualifications were found out
along with standard deviation. Based on this, the F value was computed. The
results are summarized in Table 4.2.2.2
257
Table.4.2.2.2
ANOVA for significant difference between educational qualifications with
respect to socio-psychological dimensions of QWL.
Education
Socio-psychological dimensions Mean SD F value P value
Qualification
c
Up to H.Sc 24.77 3.13
UG 22.61b 3.35 15.143 0.000**
Leadership Style
PG 22.02ab 3.83
Others 20.76a 4.25
Up to H.Sc 25.87c 3.07
UG 24.09b 3.42 13.727 0.000**
Work Culture
PG 23.56b 3.06
Others 21.62a 4.72
Up to H.Sc 22.92c 2.76
UG 22.66c 3.04 13.727 0.000**
Employee Attitude to Job
PG 21.75ab 3.85
Others 20.90a 3.96
Up to H.Sc 23.93b 3.15
Occupational Self Efficacy UG 24.10b 3.13 3.159 0.024*
PG 24.18b 3.16
Others 21.90a 4.83
Up to H.Sc 19.27c 4.00
Employee Participation in Non-Work UG 18.08ab 5.11 4.438 0.004**
Related Activities
PG 16.84a 6.17
Others 16.67a 3.73
Up to H.Sc 24.26b 2.47
UG 24.41b 2.99
Self Concept 4.591 0.004**
PG 24.72b 3.06
Others 22.10a 4.68
Up to H.Sc 12.39c 1.66
UG 12.01bc 1.78
Employee Perception about the company 7.568 0.000**
PG 11.52b 1.97
Others 10.62a 2.71
Up to H.Sc 60.80c 6.96
UG 57.61b 7.96
Quality of Work-Life 10.427 0.000**
PG 56.54b 8.78
Others 51.10a 8.68
Up to H.Sc 7.55c 1.25
UG 7.36bc 1.35
Employee Satisfaction 9.194 0.000**
PG 6.97b 1.52
Others 6.00a 1.61
Up to H.Sc 11.32b 1.66
UG 11.27b 2.09
Employee Performance 10.122 0.000**
PG 10.59b 2.71
Others 8.81a 2.65
Note: Different alphabets between educational qualifications denotes significance
at 5 % level using Duncan Multiple Range Test
258
Since P Value is less than 0.01, the null hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent
level of significance with respect to leadership styles (0.000), work culture
(0.000), employee attitude to job (0.000), employee participation in non-work
related activities (0.004), self concept (0.004), employee perception about the
company (0.000), QWL (0.000), employee satisfaction (0.000) and employee
performance (0.000). Hence it is concluded that there is significant difference
between the educational qualifications with respect to leadership styles, work
culture, employee attitude to job, employee participation in non-work related
activities, self concept, employee perception, QWL, employee satisfaction and
employee performance. Based on Duncan Multiple Range Test, the up to H.Sc
category (24.77) significantly differ with under graduate (22.61) and others
(20.76) but post graduate category (22.02) does not differ with any other
category for the factor leadership styles. With respect to work culture, there is
significant difference between up to H.Sc (25.87) with under graduate (24.09)
and post graduate categories (23.56) and also with others category (21.62).
With respect to employee attitude to job, the up to H.Sc (22.92) and under
graduate category (22.66) significantly differ with others category (20.90) but
post graduate category (21.75) does not differ with any other category. With
respect to employee participation in non-work related activities, up to H.Sc
(19.27) significantly differ with post graduate (16.84) and other qualification
categories (16.67) but under graduate category(18.08) does not differ with any
other categories. With respect to self concept, there is significant difference
between up to H.Sc (24.26), under graduate (24.41) and post graduate categories
(24.72) with others category (22.10). With respect to employee perception, up to
H.Sc category (12.39) significantly differs with post graduate (11.52) and other
categories (10.62) but under graduate category (12.01) does not significantly
differ with other categories. With respect to QWL, based on Duncan Multiple
Range Test, up to H.Sc (60.80) significantly differs with under graduate (57.61)
and post graduate categories (56.54) and also with others category (51.10). With
respect to employee satisfaction, others category (6.00) significantly differs with
259
post graduate (6.97) and up to H.Sc category (7.55) but under graduate category
(7.36) do not differ with any other category. With respect to employee
performance, others category (8.81) significantly differs with post graduate
(10.59), under graduate (11.27) and Up to H.Sc category (11.32).
Since P value (0.024) is less than 0.05, the null hypothesis is rejected at 5
percent level of significance with respect to occupational self efficacy and hence
it is concluded that there is significant difference among educational
qualifications with respect to occupational self efficacy. Based on Duncan
Multiple Range Test, the categories up to H.Sc (23.93) significantly differ with
under graduate (24.10) and post graduate category (24.18) and also with others
category (21.90).
260
(2008) in their study on 112 scientists in different research organizations also
reported a dissimilar finding.
261
Table. 4.2.2.3
ANOVA for significant difference between monthly incomes with respect to
socio-psychological factors of QWL.
Monthly
Socio-Psychological factors Mean SD F value P value
Income
Leadership Style Below 10,000 23.40c 3.52
10,001-20,000 22.08b 3.30 14.703 0.000**
20,001-30,000 21.10a 3.81
Work Culture Below 10,000 24.81b 3.34
10,001-20,000 23.21a 3.25 14.931 0.000**
20,001-30,000 22.88a 3.71
Employee Attitude to Job Below 10,000 22.32 3.12
10,001-20,000 22.34 3.60 1.400 0.248
20,001-30,000 23.04 3.42
Occupational Self Efficacy Below 10,000 24.41b 2.76
10,001-20,000 23.39a 4.03 8.475 0.000**
20,001-30,000 22.91a 3.70
Employee Participation in Below 10,000 17.35a 4.71
Non-Work Related Activities 10,001-20,000 18.27a 5.92 10.277 0.000**
20,001-30,000 20.42b 5.56
Self Concept Below 10,000 24.37b 2.99
10,001-20,000 24.86b 2.92 4.228 0.015*
20,001-30,000 23.49a 3.30
Employee Perception Below 10,000 11.98 1.85
10,001-20,000 11.87 1.93 1.195 0.304
20,001-30,000 11.60 1.99
Quality of Work-Life Below 10,000 58.17b 8.17
10,001-20,000 57.77b 8.90 3.292 0.038*
20,001-30,000 55.34a 7.10
Employee Satisfaction Below 10,000 7.30 1.47
10,001-20,000 7.12 1.41 .667 0.514
20,001-30,000 7.19 1.18
Employee Performance Below 10,000 11.01 2.13
10,001-20,000 10.88 2.60 .517 0.597
20,001-30,000 11.24 2.36
Note: Different alphabets between monthly incomes denotes significance at 5 %
level using Duncan Multiple Range test
262
Since P Value is less than 0.01, the null hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent
level of significance with respect to leadership style (0.000), work culture
(0.000), occupational self efficacy (0.000) and employee participation in non-
work related activities (0.000). Hence it is concluded that there is significant
difference between monthly income with respect to leadership styles, work
culture, occupational self efficacy, and employee participation in non-work
related activities. Based on Duncan Multiple Range Test, the income level of
below 10,000 (23.40) significantly differs with 10,001-20,000 (22.08) and
20,001-30,000 (21.10) income levels with respect to leadership style. With
respect to work culture, based on Duncan Multiple Range Test, the income level
of below 10,000 (24.81) significantly differs with 10,001-20,000 (23.21) and
20,001 -30,000 (22.88) income level categories. With respect to occupational self
efficacy, based on Duncan Multiple Range Test, the income level of below
10,000 (24.41) significantly differs with 10,001 -20,000 (23.39) and 20,001 -
30,000 (22.91) income levels. With respect to employee participation in non-
work related activities, the income level of below 10,000 (17.35) significantly
differs with 10,001-20,000(18.27) and also with 20,001-30,000 category (20.42).
Since P value is less than 0.05, the null hypothesis is rejected at 5 percent
level of significance with respect to self concept (0.015) and QWL (0.038).
Hence it is concluded that there is significant difference between monthly
incomes with respect to self concept and QWL. Based on Duncan Multiple
Range Test, the income level of below 10,000 (24.37) significantly differs with
10,001-20,000 (24.86) and also with 20,001-30,000 (23.49) income levels for the
factor self concept. With respect to quality of work-life, based on Duncan
Multiple Range Test, the income level of below 10,000 (58.17) significantly
differs with 10,001-20,000(57.77) and also with 20,001-30,000 (55.34).
263
performance (0.597). Hence it is concluded that there is no difference between
income levels with respect to the above mentioned four factors. The study reveals
that there is significant difference between monthly income with respect to
leadership styles, work culture, and occupational self efficacy, employee
participation in non-work related activities (1% level), self concept and QWL
(5%). Employees with monthly income less than Rs.10, 000 are found to have
better perception than other income groups with respect to these factors of QWL.
It seems income does not influence the perception of employees with regard to
the above mentioned factors of QWL. Employees are able to think beyond salary
which is a positive sign.
264
Table.4.2.2.4
ANOVA for significant difference between total work experiences with
respect to socio-psychological factors of QWL.
Socio-psychological Total Work
Mean SD F value P value
factors Experience
Below 2 23.37b 3.52 8.015 0.000**
Leadership Style 2-6 22.30a 3.40
Above 6 21.84a 3.93
Below 2 24.58b 3.51 3.565 0.029*
Work Culture
2-6 23.81ab 3.48
Above 6 23.66a 3.16
Below 2 22.56 3.12 2.920 0.055
Employee Attitude to Job
2-6 22.63 3.23
Above 6 21.65 3.73
Below 2 24.01 3.20 1.245 0.289
Occupational Self Efficacy
2-6 23.71 3.36
Above 6 24.41 3.19
Below 2 18.16 4.41
Employee Participation in 2-6 18.06 5.63 1.340 0.263
Non-Work Related
Activities Above 6 17.13 6.62
265
Since P Value is less than 0.01, the null hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent
level of significance and hence it is concluded that there is significant difference
between total work experience with respect to leadership styles (0.000) and
employee perception (0.015). Based on Duncan Multiple Range Test, below 2
yrs category (23.37) significantly differ with 2-6 yrs (22.30) and also with above
6 yrs (21.84) at 5 percent level for leadership styles. With regard to employee
perception, the below 2years category (12.01) differs significantly with 2-6 years
category (12.04) and also with above 6 years category (11.37).
Since P value is less than 0.05, the null hypothesis is rejected at 5 percent
level of significance with respect to work culture (0.029) and employee
perception (0.015) and hence it is concluded that there is significant difference
between total work experiences with respect to work culture and employee
perception. With respect to work culture, based on Duncan Multiple Range Test,
below 2 years (24.58) significantly differ with above 6 years (23.66) but between
2-6 years (23.81) do not differ with other categories. With respect to employee
perception about the company, based on Duncan Multiple Range Test, below 2
years (12.01) slightly differs with 2-6 years (12.04) and significantly differ with
above 6 years (11.37) at 5 percent level.
266
It has been revealed that there is significant difference between total work
experience with respect to leadership styles and employee perception. With
regard to leadership style and work culture, below 2 years category has better
perception than the other two categories. An employees total work experience
influences his/her perception regarding the leadership provided by their
managers/team leaders or their perception regarding the prevailing work culture
of the organization. It is also found out that there is no significant difference
between total work experience with respect to employee attitude to job,
occupational self efficacy, employee participation in non-work related activities,
self concept, QWL, employee satisfaction and employee performance.
Irrespective of experience, employees share the same feelings with respect to
these factors of QWL.
The study conducted by Chirayath (2010) with the objective of finding out
the relationship between organizational climate of the secondary schools of
Kerala and certain select teacher characteristics revealed that self concept of the
teachers and their participation in non-work related activities, had positive
relationship with the total teaching experience of the teachers. The present study
has come out with a dissimilar finding. In the present study, there is no
relationship between total work experience of the employees and their self
concept and participation in non work related activities. The contradiction in the
findings might be due to the nature of the industry. Chirayaths study was
conducted in educational institutions and the present study was conducted in
BPO industry.
267
To test the 8th hypothesis there is no significant difference between work
experiences in the current organization with respect to socio-psychological
factors of QWL, ANOVA was done using F test. The three work experience
categories considered in the present study were below 2 years, between 2-6 years
and above 6 years. The mean scores of the employees of different work
experience in the current organization were found out along with standard
deviation. Based on this, the F value was computed. The results are summarized
in Table 4.2.2.5
268
Table.4.2.2.5
ANOVA for significant difference between work experiences in the
current organization with respect to socio-psychological factors of QWL.
Work
experience in
Socio-psychological factors Mean SD F value P value
this
organization
Leadership Style Below 2 23.28b 3.51 7.697 0.001**
2-6 22.07a 3.75
Above 6 21.83a 3.44
Work Culture Below 2 24.54b 3.48 4.417 0.013*
2-6 23.81ab 3.39
Above 6 23.28a 3.35
Employee Attitude to Job Below 2 22.64b 3.06 7.215 0.001**
2-6 22.60b 3.37
Above 6 20.93a 3.82
Occupational Self Efficacy Below 2 24.12 3.20 2.369 0.095
2-6 23.47 3.33
Above 6 24.42 3.28
Employee Participation in Non- Below 2 18.23b 4.55
5.429 0.005**
Work Related Activities 2-6 18.26b 5.80
Above 6 15.90a 6.55
Self Concept Below 2 24.15 3.08 2.340 0.097
2-6 24.57 2.99
Above 6 24.98 2.80
Employee Perception Below 2 12.02b 1.87 6.617 0.001**
2-6 12.02b 1.82
Above 6 11.08a 1.94
Quality of Work-Life Below 2 58.19 8.40 1.718 .181
2-6 57.14 7.54
Above 6 56.30 8.62
Employee Satisfaction Below 2 7.25 1.40 .507 0.603
2-6 7.31 1.47
Above 6 7.08 1.44
Employee Performance Below 2 11.14b 2.15 4.468 0.012*
2-6 11.08b 2.42
Above 6 10.20a 2.42
Note: Different alphabet between work experiences in this organization denotes
significant at 5 % level using Duncan Multiple Range test
269
Since P value is less than 0.01, the null hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent
level of significance with respect to leadership styles (0.001), employee attitude
to job (0.001), employee participation in non-work related activities (0.005) and
employee perception (0.001). Hence it is concluded that there is significant
difference between number of years of experience in the current organization
with respect to leadership styles, employee attitude to job, employee participation
in non-work related activities and employee perception. Based on Duncan
Multiple Range Test, below 2 years of work experience (23.28) significantly
differs with 2-6 years (22.07) and also with above 6 years (21.83) at 5 percent
level for the factor leadership style. With respect to employee attitude towards
job, based on Duncan Multiple Range Test, below 2 years category (22.64)
slightly differs with 2-6 years category (22.60) and significantly differs with
above 6 years category (20.93) at 5 percent level. With respect to employee
participation in non-work related activities, based on Duncan Multiple Range
Test, below 2 years category (18.23) slightly differs with 2-6 years category
(18.26) and significantly differs with above 6 years category (15.90). With
respect to employee perception about the company, based on Duncan Multiple
Range Test, below 2years category (12.02) and 2-6 years categories (12.02,)
significantly differ with above 6 years category (11.08) at 5 percent level.
Since P value is less than 0.05, the null hypothesis is rejected at 5 percent level of
significance for work culture (0.013) and employee performance (0.012). Hence
it is concluded that there is significant difference between number of years of
experience in the current organization with respect to work culture and employee
performance. With respect to work culture, based on Duncan Multiple Range
Test, below 2 years category (24.54) significantly differs with above 6 years
category (23.28), but 2-6 years category (23.81) does not differ with other
categories. With respect to employee performance, the above 6 years category
(10.20) significantly differs with 2-6 years category (11.08) and also with below
2 years category (11.14).
270
Since P value is greater than 0.05, the null hypothesis is accepted at 5
percent level of significance with respect to occupational self efficacy, self
concept, QWL, and employee satisfaction. Hence it is concluded that there is no
significant difference between work experience in the current organization with
respect to occupational self efficacy, self concept, QWL, and employee
satisfaction.
271
educational qualification and quality of work life, monthly income and quality of
work-life and level of quality of work-life and level of employee performance
Table. 4.2.3.1
Chi-square test for association between educational qualification and level of
quality of work-life
Educational Level of Quality of Work-Life
Qualification Total Chi-
Low Moderate High square P value
9 47 41 value
Upto HSc (9.3%) (48.5%) (42.3%) 97
[7.1%] [20.0%] [29.7%]
71 127 66
Under
(26.9%) (48.1%) (25.0%) 264
Graduate
[55.9%] [54.0%] [47.8%]
35 53 30
Post Graduate (29.7%) (44.9%) (25.4%) 118
[27.6%] [22.6%] [21.7%] 32.287 0.000**
12 8 1
Others (57.1%) (38.1%) (4.8%) 21
[9.4%] [3.4%] [.7%]
Total 127 235 138 500
Note: 1. The value within ( ) refers to row percentage
2. The value within [ ] refers to column percentage
272
Table 4.2.3.1 reveals that since P value is less than 0.01, the null
hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of significance. Hence it is concluded
that there is significant association between educational qualification and level of
QWL. Based on row and column percentage, the under graduate employees have
low level of QWL than post graduate employees. The employees up to H.Sc
qualification have 9.3% of low level, 48.5% of moderate level and 42.3% of high
level of QWL. The under graduate employees have 26.9% of low level, 48.1% of
moderate level and 25.0% of high level of QWL. The post graduate employees
have 29.7% of low level, 44.9% of moderate level and 25.4% of high level of
QWL. The other employees have 57.1% of low level, 38.1% of moderate level
and 4.8% of high level of QWL.
273
A dissimilar finding is reported in a study by Reena (2011) among the
library professionals in Kerala. No significant difference was noticed among the
groups of librarians categorized on the basis of educational background. It was
concluded that the relationship between QWL of library professionals in Kerala
and educational background was not significant.
274
Table: 4.2.3.2
Chi-square test for association between monthly income and level of quality
of work-life
Table 4.2.3.2 reveals that since P value is less than 0.01, the null
hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of significance and hence it is concluded
that there is significant association between monthly income and level of QWL.
Based on row and column percentage, the employees with an income of below
10,000 have low level of QWL than employees with income of 20,001-30,000.
The employees with below 10,000 incomes have 24.2% of low level, 44.5% of
moderate level and 31.3% of high level of QWL. The employees with 10,001-
20,000 have 27.1% of low level, 44.9% of moderate level and 28.0% of high
level of QWL. The employees with 20,001-30,000 income have 28.4% of low
level, 62.7% of moderate level and 9.0% of high level of QWL.
275
The analysis reveals that there is significant association between monthly
income and quality of work-life because remuneration occupies an important
place in the life of an employee. An employees standard of living, status in the
society, motivation, loyalty and productivity depend upon the remuneration
he/she receives. An effective system of remuneration is highly significant
because several problems related to personnel centre around one element i.e.
remuneration. Attractive remuneration enables an organization to attract, retain
and motivate competent people.
276
Table. 4.2.3.3
Chi-square test for association between level of quality of work-life and
level of employee performance
40 79 8
Low (31.5%) (62.2%) (6.3%) 127
[44.9%] [27.5%] [6.5%]
Moderate 42 129 64
(17.9%) (54.9%) (27.2%) 235
[47.2%] [44.9%] [51.6%] 54.034 0.000**
High 7 79 52
(5.1%) (57.2%) (37.7%) 138
[7.9%] [27.5%] [41.9%]
Total 89 287 124 500
Table 4.2.3.3 reveals that since P Value is less than 0.01, the null
hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of significance. Hence it is concluded
that there is significant difference between level of QWL and level of employee
performance. Based on row and column percentage, the employees with low
QWL have low level of employee performance than high level of QWL. The
employees with low level of QWL have 31.5% of low level, 62.2% of moderate
level and 6.3% of high level of employee performance. The employees with
moderate level of QWL have 17.9% of low level, 54.9% of moderate level, and
27.2% of high level of employee performance. The employees with high level of
QWL have 5.1% of low level, 57.2% of moderate level and 37.7% of high level
of employee performance.
277
summarize the connection between QWL and work performance. The literature
says that in order to ensure success of an organization, the organization engine
which is the employee must be focused, and serviced accordingly to ensure that
they will give their best. Employees demonstrate dissatisfaction by performing
below their actual ability when their needs are not fulfilled by the organization.
The upcoming literature that tries to seek the association between QWL and
work performance mainly focused on the remuneration aspect which includes
salary, salary increment, bonuses, allowances, pension and medical benefits
which serve as best examples that can motivate employees to give their best to
their employer. Besides remuneration aspect, interpersonal communication
aspects are one of the main factors that contribute to work performance. This
aspect includes respecting others, working together, believing others and
information sharing which will benefit both the employee and employer. Work
environment, job security and safety aspects such as retirement scheme, workers
association and accident free workplace are some of the examples that can
motivate the employees. Organization support also serves an important tool to
strengthen employee work performance. If the organization engine is left
working alone without any support/supervision, their performance will be
affected. Individual and family life, personal health and well-being were found to
have an influence on employees work performance.
278
QWL can be improved concurrently using the same work place practices and
there is no need to execute separate projects for improving one another.
Systematic application of WOM practices is positively related to simultaneous
improvement. Concerning the nature of development method, the study showed
that employee participation in planning and implementation phase, close
collaboration during the process, the methods used by the experts and external
networking were related to simultaneous outcome at workplaces.
279
Table 4.2.4.1
Friedman test for significant difference between mean ranks towards
perception on QWL
Chi-
Mean
Perception on QWL square P value
Rank
value
Participative decision making is time consuming 9.15
Not seen other family members 5.69
Asked to stay back beyond shift hours 7.48
Participative decision making gives me job
10.20
satisfaction
Flexible work timings motivates me to be
10.85
productive
Expected to adjust to sudden shifts 8.32
Identify with the goals of the organization 9.97
Self critical about what I do 7.47
Getting fair pay compared to others 7.02 1084.186 0.000**
Confident of doing any difficult task 10.82
Instructions are well-communicated 10.41
Weekly breaks entirely spent with family 9.06
Continue to work for the org. Because of
6.96
financial consequences
Skipping company outings implies lack of
8.52
commitment
Recognizing employee performance reduces
8.13
employee turn over
Long queues in cafeteria forces me to skip meal 5.94
** denotes significant at 1% level
Table. 4.2.4.1 reveals that since p value is less than 0.01, the null
hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of significance. Hence it is concluded
that there is significant relationship between mean ranks towards perception of
quality of work life. Based on mean rank, 5th statement (10.85) i.e. Flexible
work timings motivate me to be more productive, 12th statement (10.82), I am
confident of doing any difficult task, and 13th statement (10.41) Instructions are
well-communicated are the three topmost statements of QWL.
280
4.2.4.2 Testing of 13th hypothesis
Table 4.2.4.2
Friedman Test for significant difference between mean ranks towards
perception of leadership styles
Mean Chi-square
Perception on Leadership Styles P value
Rank value
Supervisor arouses my enthusiasm to achieve
3.51
the goal
Supervisor provides new direction of thinking
3.83
in times of difficulty
Supervisor gives clear instruction about what
4.00
should or should not be done 0.000**
341.872
Supervisor doesnt take any action until things
2.45
go wrong
Supervisor asks for improvement when my
3.85
performance is under his/her expectation
Supervisor gives my reward or punishment
3.36
according to result of my performance
** denotes significant at 1% level
Table 4.2.4.2 reveals that since P value is less than 0.01 the null
hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of significance. Hence it is concluded
that there is significant relationship between mean ranks towards perception of
leadership styles contributing to QWL. Based on mean rank My supervisor
gives clear instruction about what should or should not be done (4.00), My
supervisor asks for improvement when my performance is under his/her
expectation(3.85), and My supervisor provides new direction of thinking in
times of difficulty (3.83) are the three top most statements under the factor
leadership styles.
281
The analysis reveals that there is significant difference between the mean
ranks towards the perception on leadership styles. This might be due to the fact
that leadership is an important factor of employee satisfaction which is
influenced by the internal organizational environment that includes
organizational climate, leadership types and personnel relationships (Wexley and
Yukl, 1984). The quality of the leader-employee relationship or the lack thereof
has great influence on the employees self esteem and job satisfaction (Chen and
Spector 1991; Brockner 1988; DeCremer 2003). Employees are more satisfied
with considerate and supportive leaders than with those who are indifferent or
critical towards their subordinates (Yukl 1971). Negative leader-employee
relation reduces productivity and increases absenteeism and turnover rate
(Keashly, Trott, and MacLean 1994; Ribelin 2003). According to Robbins
(2003), the employee resignation rate with transformational leadership is less
than with the transactional leadership. Improving the employees working
situations; fulfilling their needs and helping them to perform better are positively
related to transformational leadership. Transformational culture boosts both the
organization and the employees performance (Bass and Avolio 1993) without
enforcing extra burden on them (Schlotz, 2009). Researchers have found the
strong relationship between transformational leadership and job satisfaction and
viewed that, for an organization to enhance job satisfaction among their workers
and to increase commitment they must follow transformational leadership style
(Koh, Steers and Terborc, 1995).
282
job satisfaction, QWL has more impact on productivity. But a dissimilar finding
is reported by Markow and Klenke (2005). Their study revealed that employees
with higher levels of spirituality have higher levels of quality of work-life.
Table 4.2.4.3
Friedman test for significant difference between mean ranks towards the
perception of work culture.
Chi-
Mean
Perception on Work Culture square P value
Rank
value
Consider both positive and negative
3.94
aspects before action
Face and do not shy away from problems 3.94
Accept and appreciate help offered by
3.73
others
Believe freedom to employees breeds
2.89 272.867 0.000**
indiscipline
Believe that a good way to motivate
employees is to give them autonomy at 3.61
work
Usually , emphasis on team work dilutes
2.89
individual accountability
** denotes significant at 1% level
283
Table 4.2.4.3 reveals that since P value is less than 0.01, the null
hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of significance and hence it is concluded
that there is significant difference between mean ranks towards their perception
on work culture. Based on mean rank, I consider both positive and negative
aspects before action (3.94), I face and do not shy away from problems (3.94)
and I accept and appreciate help offered by others (3.73) are the three top most
statements in the factor work culture.
284
educational, professional and cultural backgrounds. Thus, there are rich culture
ties and exchanges in the BPO companies.
285
Table 4.2.4.4
Friedman test for significant difference between mean ranks towards the
perception on employee attitude to job.
Mean Chi-square P value
Perception on Employee Attitude to Job
Rank value
Supervisor listens to my suggestions 3.45
Given the freedom to find new and better
3.10
ways to get the work done
Decisions are made in my dept without
3.67
unreasonable delay
Too much of work related stress in this 61.355 .000**
3.66
organization leads to burnout
Supervisor lets me know what is happening in
3.36
the organization
Management has created an open and
3.77
comfortable work environment
** denotes significant at 1% level
Table 4.2.4.4 reveals that since p value is less than 0.01, the null
hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of significance and hence it is concluded
that there is significant difference between mean ranks towards the perception on
employee attitude to job. Based on mean rank, Management has created an open
and comfortable work environment (3.77), Decisions are made in my dept
without unreasonable delay (3.67) and Too much of work related stress in this
organization leads to burnout (3.66), are the three topmost statements.
286
concept in their designs (Aryeeey and Sanda, 2012). Researchers reveal that
organizations using the employees insight and knowledge can identify QWL
indicators whose incorporation in the functional organization system could
support the creation of positive organizational values not only to enhance
employees commitment, job satisfaction and productivity, but also to create
good employee-management relationship towards increased organizational
performances.
287
Table 4.2.4.5
Friedman test for significant difference between mean ranks towards the
perception on occupational self efficacy
Chi-
Mean
Perception on Occupational Self Efficacy square P value
Rank
value
If in trouble, I can usually think of a solution 4.10
Can solve most problems if i invest necessary
3.66
effort
It is easy for me to stick to aims and accomplish
3.45
my goals
240.198 0.000**
Confident that I could deal efficiently with
3.75
unexpected events
Remain calm when facing difficulties because I
2.87
can rely on my coping abilities
Can usually handle whatever comes my way 3.16
** denotes significant at 1% level
Table 4.2.4.5 reveals that since P value is less than 0.01, the null
hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of significance and hence it is concluded
that there is significant difference between mean ranks towards their perception
on occupational self efficacy. Based on mean rank, If I am in trouble, I can
usually think of a solution (4.10), I am confident that I could deal efficiently
with unexpected events, (3.75), and I can solve most problems if I invest
necessary effort (3.66), are the three top most statements.
The analysis reveals that there is significant difference between the mean
ranks towards the perception on occupational self efficacy. Self efficacy is
defined as individuals belief in ones capabilities to organize and execute the
courses of action required to achieve the goals (Bandura, 1997). A strong sense
of self efficacy enhances human accomplishment and personal well-being in
many ways. People with high assurance in their capabilities approach difficult
tasks as challenges to be mastered rather as threats to be avoided. Such an
efficacious outlook fosters intrinsic interest and deep engrossment in activities.
Self efficacious people set themselves challenging goals and maintain strong
288
commitment to them, heighten and sustain their efforts in the face of failure,
quickly recover their sense of efficacy after failures/setbacks, approach
threatening situations with assurance that they can exercise control over them.
Such an efficacious outlook produces personal accomplishments, reduces stress
and lowers vulnerability to depression. Employment in BPO is perceived to have
enhanced young peoples communication skills and self efficacy. Young women
are very confident about their ability to negotiate with elders and their parents on
issues about which they disagree.
289
Table 4.2.4.6
Friedman test for significant difference between mean ranks towards the
perception on employee participation in non-work related activities
Perception on Employee Participation in Mean Chi-square
P value
non-work related activities Rank value
The company has courts for outdoor games 3.01
The company organizes various employee
3.31
engagement activities
The company has special interest groups that
3.63
plan weekend trips, sports, cultural events
The company has an employee lounge open 473.302 0.000**
3.79
24/7 for employees to relax
The company provides crche, a day care
2.69
facility for children
The organization organizes birthday
4.58
celebrations and wedding anniversaries
** denotes significant at 1% level
Table 4.2.4.6 reveals that since P value is less than 0.01, the null
hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of significance and hence it is concluded
that there is significant difference between mean ranks towards the perception on
employee participation in non-work related activities. Based on mean rank, The
organization organizes birthday celebrations and wedding anniversaries (4.58),
The Company has an employee lounge open 24/7 for employees to relax
(3.79), and The Company has special interest groups that plan weekend trips,
sports, cultural events (3.63) are the three top most statements.
The analysis reveals that there is significant difference between the mean
ranks of employees towards the perception on employee participation in non-
work related activities. This may be due to the fact that the companies organize
cultural programs as and when possible but most of the times, once in a quarter,
in which all the employees are given an opportunity to display their talents in
dramatics, singing, acting, dancing etc. Apart from that the organizations also
conduct various games programs such as cricket, football, etc. and sometime play
matches with teams of other organizations and colleges. Hence the opinions of
employees vary.
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In Genpact BPO, employees do a variety of things. Their internal CSR
(Corporate Social Responsibility) brand is named caring@genpact. The giving
philosophy is geared towards giving back of time and skills, especially towards
chosen areas such as education/employability, healthcare, inclusion and
environment which are strategically chosen. Time-wise, they keep their
initiatives very flexible leaving it to the employees to do so at their convenience.
Every team gets flexibility to choose and decide what activity and what scope it
wants to contribute. In general they encourage a minimum of 2 hours of
volunteering per month whether spent over weekdays or holidays. Most of their
initiatives are ongoing programs led by sites. Hyderabad site leads Gurukul
program through which employees teach computers to underprivileged kids.
Infosys BPO has a chief fun officer to promote fun at work. Brigade, a
Hyderabad based BPO has chief fun officer, who is in charge of all the fun that
includes dancing, singing, various competitions, games , parties etc. In some
companies like Global Inc., lights are turned off after 6 pm every Friday and then
the whole office has a whale of time playing hide and seek and Antakshari.
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4.2.4.7 Testing of 18th hypothesis
Table 4.2.4.7
Friedman test for significant difference between mean ranks towards the
perception on self concept
Mean Chi-square
Perception on Self Concept P value
Rank value
Wish I could work harder in my job 4.15
Wish I could correct the mistakes of
2.98
my colleagues
Wish I could deal with others with
3.59
more presence of mind
Can deal with others with presence of
3.44 292.298 0.000**
mind
Colleagues regards me as one of the
efficient employees in the 2.88
organization
Have the ability to face my colleagues
3.96
and talk to them
** denotes significant at 1% level
Table 4.2.4.7 reveals that since P value is less than 0.01, the null
hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent level of significance and hence it is concluded
that there is significant difference between mean ranks of employees towards the
perception on self concept. Based on mean rank, I wish I could work harder in
my job (4.15), I have the ability to face my colleagues and talk to them (3.96),
and I wish I could deal with others with more presence of mind (3.59) are the
three top most statements.
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The analysis reveals that there is significant difference between the mean
ranks towards the perception on self concept. Self concept refers to the loyalty
of a complex, organized, and dynamic system of learned beliefs, attitudes and
opinions that each person holds to be true about his/her personal existence
(Yahaya and Ramli, 2009). Self concept is a persons way of perceiving
himself and may be either positive or negative. Self concept depends on how
he is treated and how he perceives such treatment. The main factors that
determine the formation of self concept of an individual are the environment as
well as people with whom the individual lives. Beheshtifar and Rahimi-Nehzad
(2012) in their study on self concept found that self concept in organizations
could have an effect on social work behaviors such as caring co-workers and
being cooperative with others which are sometimes known as extra-role
behaviors; organization-based role-set in workplace like occupation role,
subordinate role and colleague and group member role; career satisfaction and
achievement. Researchers say that when the managers have favorable attitudes
towards themselves, they would be in a better position to build positive and
realistic self concept in their employees. So promoting self concept is of high
importance and positive self concept should be reinforced among the employees.
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Table 4.2.4.8
Friedman Test for the significant difference between mean ranks towards
their perception on employee performance
Chi-
Mean
Perception on Employee Performance square P value
Rank
value
In the last appraisal approval period, Manager
1.81
has talked to me about my progress
Manager holds me accountable for the work
2.38 165.504 0.000**
that i do
Feel the companys employment benefit
1.81
scheme meets my needs
** denotes significant at 1% level
Since P value is less than 0.01, the null hypothesis is rejected at 1 percent
level of significance and hence it is concluded that there is significant difference
between mean ranks towards perception on employee performance. Based on
mean rank, My manager holds me accountable for the work that I do (2.38),
In the last appraisal approval period, my manager has talked to me about my
progress (1.81) and I feel the companys employment benefit scheme meets
my needs (1.81) are the important statements.
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4.2.5 Correlation analysis:
295
Table 4.2.5.1
Correlation analysis for significant relationship between socio-psychological
factors and quality of work-life
Quality of Employee Employee
Socio-psychological factors
Work-Life Performance Satisfaction
Leadership Style
0.582** 0.367** 0.388**
Work culture
0.520** 0.260** 0.163**
Employee Attitude to Job
0.511** 0.532** 0.430**
Occupational Self Efficacy
0.329** 0.171** 0.085
Employee Participation in
0.385** 0.474** 0.251**
Non-Work Related Activities
Self Concept
0.509** 0.114* 0.066
Employee Perception
0.450** 0.511** 0.249**
** Significant at 1% level
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and quality of work-life; and between employee
performance and employee satisfaction.
Table 4.2.5.2
Correlation analysis for significant relationship between employee
performance and quality of work-life
Quality of Employee Employee
Variables Work-Life Performance Satisfaction
Quality of Work-Life
1.000 0.363** 0.431**
Employee Performance
- 1.000 0.425**
Employee Satisfaction
- - 1.000
** Significant at 1% level
Table 4.2.5.2 reveals that the correlation coefficient between QWL and
employee performance is 0.363 which indicate 36.3% positive relationship
between QWL and employee performance, 43.1% positive relationship between
QWL and employee satisfaction and 42.5% positive relationship between
employee performance and employee satisfaction and all are significant at 1%
level. Hence the null hypothesis is rejected at 1% level.
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correlations and the equation describing such relationship is called the multiple
regression equation.
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Multiple R value : 0.765
R Square value : 0.585
F value : 99.026
P value : 0.000**
Table. 4.2.6.1
Variables in the multiple regression analysis
Standardized
Variables Unstandardized
SE of B Coefficients t value P value.
Coefficients(B)
()
Constant
-5.715 2.597 - 2.201 0.028*
Table 4.2.6.1 shows that the multiple correlation coefficient is 0.765 and it
measures the degree of relationship between the actual values and the predicted
values of the QWL. Because the predicted values are obtained as linear
combination of leadership styles, organization culture, employee attitude to job,
occupational self efficacy, employee participation in non-work related activities,
self concept and employee perception, the coefficient value of 0.765 indicates
that the relationship between QWL and socio-psychological factors is quite
strong and positive.
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equation. Thus the value of R-square is 0.585 simply means that about 58.5% of
the variation in QWL is explained by the estimated SRP that uses socio-
psychological factors as the independent variables and R square value is
significant at 1 percent level.
Y= -5.715+0.631X1+0.379X2+0.341X3+0.232X4+0.339X5+0.807X6+0.077X7
300
significant at 1% level. The coefficient of X6 is 0.807 which represents the partial
effect of self concept on QWL, holding the other variable as constant. The
estimated positive sign implies that such effect is positive that QWL score would
increase by 0.379 for every unit increase in self concept and this coefficient value
is significant at 1% level. The coefficient of X7 is 0.077 which represents the
partial effect of employee perception about the company on QWL, holding the
other variables as constant. The estimated positive sign implies that such effect is
positive that QWL score would increase by 0.077 for every unit increase in
employee perception about the company and this coefficient value is not
significant at 1% level.
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Multiple R value : 0.683
R Square value : 0.467
F value : 47.611
P value : 0.000**
Table 4.2.6.2
Variables in the multiple regression analysis
Unstandard Standardize t
Variables P value.
ized Co- SE of B d value
efficients(B) Coefficients
Constant -1.123 0.838 - 1.340 0.181
Leadership (X1) 0.007 0.028 0.011 0.260 0.002**
Work Culture(X2) 0.003 0.028 0.005 0.122 0.003**
Employee attitude(X3) 0.135 0.031 0.194 4.327 0.000**
Occupational Self efficacy
0.083 0.027 0.119 3.101 0.002**
(X4)
Employee Participation (X5) 0.127 0.017 0.291 7.310 0.000**
Self Concept (X6) 0.012 0.031 0.016 0.379 0.003**
Employee Perception (X7) 0.339 0.051 0.283 6.702 0.000**
Employee Satisfaction (X8) 0.373 0.063 0.234 5.937 0.000**
QWL (X9) 0.032 0.015 -0.117 2.188 0.029*
** denotes significant at 1% level
*denotes significant at 5% level
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equation. Thus the value of R-square is 0.467 means that about 46.7% of the
variation in QWL is explained by the estimated SRP that uses socio-
psychological factors as the independent variables and R square value is
significant at 1 percent level.
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positive that employee performance score would increase by 0.127 for every unit
increase in employee participation in non-work related activities and this
coefficient value is significant at1% level. The coefficient of X6 is 0.012
represents the partial effect of self concept on employee performance, holding
the other variables as constant. The estimated positive sign implies that such
effect is positive that employee performance score would increase by 0.012 for
every unit increase in self concept and this coefficient value is significant at 5%
level. The coefficient of X7 is 0.339 represents the partial effect of employee
perception about the company on employee performance, holding the other
variables as constant. The estimated positive sign implies that such effect is
positive that employee performance score would increase by 0.339 for every unit
increase in employee perception about the company and this coefficient value is
significant at 1% level. The coefficient of X8 is 0.373 represents the partial effect
of employee satisfaction on employee performance, holding X9 as constant. The
estimated positive sign implies that such effect is positive that employee
performance score would increase by 0.373 for every unit increase in employee
satisfaction and this coefficient value is significant at 1% level. The coefficient
of X9 is 0.032 represents the partial effect of quality of work-life on employee
performance, holding the other variables as constant. The estimated positive sign
implies that such effect is positive that employee performance score would
increase by 0.032 for every unit increase in quality of work-life and this
coefficient value is significant at 1% level.
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4.2.7. Structural equation modeling
305
III. Unobserved, exogenous variables
306
Figure 5.1
13.07
Leadership
Style
5.61 12.04 -4.96
Work
5.53
Culture -1.17 -2.88
3.83 .46
10.74
2.10
30.25 1.67
Employee 9.72
4.57 .25
Attitude e1 e2
5.97 e3
1.64 .47 1 1 1
2.42 10.58
2.88
Occupational .28
7.55 Self-Efficacy .09 Employee 2.32 Employee
4.17
3.16 QWL Satisfaction Performance
-1.27 .41
2.93 2.49 27.07
3.09 Self-
Concept
1.45
3.58
Employee
Perception
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Table 4.2.7.1
Variables in the structural equation model analysis
Standa
Unstanda
rdized t
Variables rdized S.E. p value
coeffici value
coefficient
ent
QWL <--- Leadership 0.463 0.068 0.203 6.773 <0.001**
QWL <--- Work
0.246 0.072 0.104 3.412 <0.001**
Culture
QWL <--- Employee
Attitude to 0.475 0.079 0.189 6.035 <0.001**
Job
QWL <--- Occupational
0.281 0.070 0.111 4.037 <0.001**
Self-Efficacy
QWL <--- Employee
0.413 0.045 0.261 9.230 <0.001**
Participation
QWL <--- Self Concept 0.498 0.075 0.184 6.643 <0.001**
QWL <--- Employee
0.541 0.133 0.124 4.070 <0.001**
Perception
Employee
0.092 0.009 0.531 9.741 <0.001**
Satisfaction <--- QWL
Employee
Performance <--- Employee 2.323 0.248 1.455 9.379 <0.001**
Satisfaction
Note: ** denotes significance at 1% level
The Table 4.2.7.1 shows that the coefficient of leadership styles is 0.463
which represents the partial effect of perception towards leadership on QWL,
holding work culture, employee attitude, occupational self efficacy, employee
participation, self concept, employee performance, QWL and employee
satisfaction as constant. The estimated positive sign implies that such effect is
positive that QWL would increase by 0.463 units for every unit increase in
leadership styles and this coefficient value is significant at 5% level. The
coefficient of organization culture is 0.246 which represents the partial effect of
work culture towards QWL holding employee attitude, occupational self
efficacy, employee participation, self concept, employee performance, QWL and
employee satisfaction as constant. The estimated positive sign implies that such
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effect is positive that QWL would increase by 0.246 units increase in work
culture towards QWL and this coefficient value is not significant at 5% level.
The coefficient of employee attitude to job is 0.475 which represents the partial
effect of employee attitude towards QWL, holding occupational self-efficacy,
employee participation, self concept, employee performance, QWL and
employee satisfaction as constant. The estimated positive sign implies that such
effect is positive that QWL would increase by 0.475 units increase in employee
attitude towards QWL and this coefficient value is significant at 5% level. The
coefficient of occupational self-efficacy towards QWL is 0.281 which represents
the partial effect of occupational self-efficacy towards QWL, holding employee
participation, self concept, employee performance, QWL and employee
satisfaction as constant. The estimated positive sign implies that such effect is
positive that QWL would increase by 0.281 units increase in occupational self
efficacy and this coefficient value is significant at 5% level. The coefficient of
employee participation towards QWL is 0.413 which represents the partial effect
of employee participation towards QWL, holding self concept, employee
performance, QWL and employee satisfaction as constant. The estimated positive
sign implies that such effect is positive that QWL would increase by every unit
increase in employee participation and this coefficient value is significant at 5%
level. The coefficient of self concept is 0.498 which represents the partial effect
of self concept on QWL, holding employee performance, QWL and employee
satisfaction as constant. The estimated positive sign implies that such effect is
positive that QWL would increase by 0.498 units increase in self concept and this
coefficient value is significant at 5% level. The coefficient of employee
performance is 0.541 which represents the partial effect of employee
performance on QWL holding, QWL and employee satisfaction as constant. The
estimated positive sign implies that such effect is positive that QWL would
increase by 0.541 units increase in employee performance and this coefficient
value is significant at 5% level. The coefficient of QWL is 0.092 which
represents the partial effect of QWL on employee satisfaction, holding employee
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satisfaction as constant. The estimated positive sign implies that such effect is
positive that QWL would increase by 0.092 units increase in QWL and this
coefficient value is significant at 5% level. The coefficient of QWL is 2.323
which represent the partial effect of employee satisfaction on employee
performance, holding leadership, work culture, employee attitude to job,
occupational self efficacy, employee participation in non-work related activities,
self concept, and QWL as constant. The estimated positive sign implies that such
effect is positive that employee performance would increase by 2.323 units
increase in employee satisfaction and this coefficient value is significant at 5%
level. Model fit summary of SEM is given in Table 4.2.7.2.
Table 4.2.7.2
Model fit summary of SEM
Variable Value
Chi-square value 14.936
P value 0.245
GFI 0.955
AGFI 0.948
CFI 0.915
RMSEA 0.057
The Goodness of Fit statistic (GFI) was created by Joreskog and Sorbom
as an alternative to the Chi-square test and calculates the proportion of variance
that is accounted for by the estimated population covariance (Tabachnick and
Fidell, 2007). By looking at the variances and covariances accounted for by the
model it shows how closely the model comes to replicating the observed
covariance matrix (Diamantopoulos and Siguaw, 2000). This statistic ranges
from 0 to 1 with larger samples increasing its value. When there are a large
number of degrees of freedom in comparison to sample size, then GFI has a
download bias (Sharma et al., 2005). In addition, it has also been found that the
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GFI increases as the number of parameters increases (MacCallum and Hong,
1997) and has also an upward bias with large samples (Bollen, 1990; Miles and
Shevlin, 1998). Traditionally an omnibus cut-off point of 0.90 has been
recommended for the GFI, however, similar studies have shown that when factor
loadings and sample sizes are low a higher cut-off of 0.95 is more appropriate
(Miles and Shevlin, 1998).
Where Fk is the minimum fit function after a SEM model has been
estimated using K degrees of freedom; F0 is the fit function that would result if all
parameters were zero.
A model that fits well produces a ratio of FK/F0 that is quite small.
Conversely, a model that does not fit well produces FK/F0 that is relatively large
because Fk would not differ much from F0. In the extreme, if a model failed to
explain any true covariance between measured variables, Fk/F0 would be 1,
meaning the GFI would be 0.
CFI:
The Comparative Fit Index (CFI: Bentler, 1990) is a revised form of the
NFI which takes into account sample size (Byrne, 1998) that performs well even
when sample size is small (Tabachnick and Fidell, 2007). This index was first
311
introduced by Bentler (1990). Like the NFI, this statistic assumes that all latent
variables are uncorrelated (null/independence model) and compares the sample
covariance matrix with this null model. As with NFI, values of this statistic range
between 0.0 and 1.0 with values closer to 1.0 indicating good fit. A cut-off
criterion of CFI0.90 was initially advanced. However, recent studies have
shown that a value greater than 0.90 is needed in order to ensure that mis-
specified models are not accepted (Hu and Bentler, 1999). From this a value of
CFI0.95 is presently recognized as indicator of good fit (Hu and Bentler, 1999).
RMSEA:
The Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) tells how well
the model, with unknown but optimally chosen parameter estimates would fit the
populations covariance matrix (Bryne, 1996). In recent years it has become
regarded as one of the most informative fit indices (Diamantopoulos and
Siguaw, 2000:85) due to its sensitivity to the number of estimated parameters in
the model. In other words, the RMSEA favors parsimony in that it will choose
the model with lesser number of parameters. Recommendations for RMSEA cut-
off points have been reduced considerably in the last fifteen years. Until the early
nineties, an RMSEA in the range of 0.05 to 0.10 was considered as an indication
of fair fit and values above 0.10 indicated poor fit (MacCallum et al., 1996). It
312
was then thought that an RMSEA of between 0.08 to 0.10 provides a mediocre fit
and below 0.08 shows a good fit (MacCallum et al., 1996).
From the Table 4.2.7.2, it is found that the calculated P value is 0.245,
which is greater than 0.05 which indicates perfect fit. Here GFI (Goodness of Fit
Index) and AGFI (Adjusted Goodness of Fit Index) values are greater than 0.9
which represent as a good fit. The calculated CFI (Comparative Fit Index) is
0.915 which means that it is a perfect fit and also it is found that RMSEA (Root
mean square error of approximation) value is 0.057 which is lesser than 0.10
which indicates that it is perfect fit.
4.3 CONCLUSION:
The analysis and interpretation done using various statistical tools in SPSS
16.0 version and SEM are discussed in detail in this chapter. As the broad
objective of the present study is to find out whether the select socio-
psychological variables contribute to QWL or not, the study results clearly
revealed that there is significant relationship between all the socio-psychological
variables and QWL. Another important objective of the present study was to test
the conceptual model developed by the researcher. The model is found to be fit,
which tells that socio-psychological factors contributing to QWL lead to
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employee satisfaction and eventually lead to employee performance. So the BPO
companies should consider the socio-psychological aspects of QWL mentioned
in the present study in order to achieve employee satisfaction and to improve
employee performance, thus achieving organizational excellence.
314
employees and the managers to function as effective teams by understanding
each other including oneself.
It was also found that positive relationships exist between quality of work-
life and employee satisfaction and employee performance. Hence, measures
should be taken to improve the quality of the work-life of employees to enhance
their satisfaction and their performance, that is, productivity. Towards this
purpose, both hygiene factors and motivators in the work environment should
be improved. It is not that only motivators should be taken care of or only
hygiene factors should be taken care of. For a young employee, at least in the
initial years of his career, hygiene factors in the work environment are very
important. As mentioned in Chapter 1, seventy percent of BPO employees are
below thirty-five years of age (Gen Y).
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are compelled to review, revise and revitalize their HR policies so as to
accommodate female professionals. Women who work in night shifts have to be
taken care of by the company for their safety. Reliable and honest cab drivers
have to be arranged by the company to bring the women employees from their
homes and drop them back safely at odd hours of the night. Many women are
compelled to leave the job after the birth of the child. Ironically, a womans
productive years are also her reproductive years. Three months maternity leave is
an issue for many companies, at the same time career need to be attractive for
women. Many mid-career women quit the job to take care of their family and
children and also the elder parents who stay with them. Companies should realize
that investing in women work force makes good business sense and retaining the
female talents makes even better sense both for the companys profile as well as
its political correctness. Many of the problems which female employees face are
country-specific but there is one serious issue which is global and that is the
work life balance. Work life balance of employees is a major challenge for HR
managers. Flexible working hours, working at home, working on a part-time
basis are all good, but at the end of the day every employee has to be evaluated.
Women also should realize that they need to take care of their jobs along with
their children. They cannot take off for six months, join and then say bye-bye
to the company. This approach is totally unprofessional. One peculiar problem
which Indian families face is: India has extremely powerful women in politics,
business and governance. But at home it is a different story. Men do not help in
household tasks. Another peculiarity of Indian and Chinese culture is that
marriage is the ultimate goal for women. These stereotypes and mindsets need to
change.
The anchor for staying in a company for a longer period would be based
on factors like the role, growth, job satisfaction, work environment and not just
the money (Raja Simhan, T.E., The Hindu business line, Friday, July 13, 2012).
The strategy for filling up the talent gap would be that of mixing of hiring and
316
accelerated learning programs through need-based training. Moreover, talent
retention is very much crucial for delivery and also for client satisfaction. HR
department should conduct talent review and planning process periodically. High
potential talent pool should be identified and career advancement plans should be
chalked out for them along with differential rewards. At the same time it should
also be remembered that compensation is not the only way to make the
employees feel valuable and wanted. A singular focus on compensation to attract
and retain talent is inappropriate because it comes with limited shelf-life and
feasibility (Shankar Srinivasan, Chief People Officer, Cognizant Technology
Solutions, The Hindu Business Line, Friday, July 13, 2012). Instead, companies
should focus more on employee empowerment programs. Creating an
entrepreneurial culture that encourages responsibility, commitment, sharing and
excellence across all layers will go a long way to combat the alarming attrition in
BPO companies. This would definitely give the associates a free hand to push the
limits of imagination in doing what they think which is good for the customers
as well as the company. Employees should be given the right tools to replicate
their digital lives in the work place to engage them better, enhance the quality of
services given to the clients and improve overall performance of the company.
Cognizant 2.0 which is a web 2.0 based platform, is a case in hand. It serves as a
virtual town square for over 140,000 Cognizant associates and over 100,000
active users who share knowledge such as best practices, process guidance and
technological artifacts across the companys global delivery network and
collaborate on hundreds of projects worldwide.
317
perspective and provides various avenues to pursue the same. Companies should
realize that to keep a momentum of business and revenues, they need to
strategize newer ways of retaining and motivating employees. Keeping pace with
skill redundancy is the key to retaining talent. They should use sophisticated
forecasting techniques by which they can predict who may potentially leave and
can program to retain top talent. Analytics on retention trends and demographics
play a major role in managing a multi-cultural and multi-generation environment.
318