My Experience at EY: A Reflection Amidst a National Conversation
Recently, a tragic incident has surfaced, drawing attention to the immense pressures faced by professionals in India’s corporate sector. The news is heartening and sad, reminding us of the toll that unchecked workplace demands can take on individuals’ mental and physical well-being. While no gesture can truly fill the void left by such loss, it is clear that organizations across India must take the initiative to ensure the well-being of their employees is prioritized. The issue is systemic and extends beyond any one company.
However, this isn’t just about one isolated incident or one organization. While the situation in many Indian corporations is dire, my personal experience at EY has shown me a different perspective — one that reflects the positive potential of multinational corporations to create healthier, more supportive work environments. EY, as a global firm, stands out in India’s corporate landscape. Despite the challenges that come with any high-pressure job, I believe that EY’s processes, culture, and commitment to employee rights have made it a far better place to work compared to many others.
EY’s Commitment to a Positive Work Environment
One of the reasons EY has a reputation for being a great place to work is its adherence to global standards and practices, something that is often lacking in other Indian companies. My time at EY has been a learning experience in many ways. The organization has consistently promoted a culture of inclusivity, continuous growth, and respect for employee rights. While the demands of the job can be intense at times, I have always felt that EY values its people and is committed to ensuring a fair and supportive environment.
The well-being initiatives at EY are meaningful. There is a genuine effort to support employees through wellness programs, flexible work arrangements, and regular check-ins on mental and physical health. These are not just box-ticking exercises; they are part of a company culture that values the long-term health of its employees, recognizing that a burnt-out workforce cannot sustain success.
Lessons for Life
Working at EY has been one of the most enriching experiences of my career. I’ve gained not only technical skills but also life lessons that I carry with me every day. One of the most valuable aspects of EY’s culture is its people. The teams I’ve worked with have been a source of strength and learning. At EY, you are constantly surrounded by professionals who push you to grow, who support you when things get tough, and who remind you that while work is important, it is not everything.
Through mentorship, collaboration, and exposure to diverse challenges, I have learned to strike a balance between meeting work targets and maintaining personal well-being. This is a lesson that is unfortunately not emphasized in many other Indian corporations, where overwork is often seen as a badge of honor.
The Broader Indian Corporate Landscape
While EY has provided me with a relatively positive work experience, the broader reality in India’s corporate sector is starkly different. The culture of overwork, lack of employee rights, and absence of meaningful wellness programs are rampant. Many Indian organizations still operate under the assumption that employees should be ready to sacrifice their personal lives for the company’s bottom line. This mindset needs to change if the workforce is to thrive in the long term.
EY’s practices have shown that it is possible to balance performance expectations with employee well-being. Other companies in India would do well to take note and begin implementing processes that prioritize their employees’ mental and physical health.
My experience at EY has been overwhelmingly positive, and I am grateful for the lessons I have learned, the people I have met, and the opportunities I have been given. However, the recent tragedy serves as a reminder that the broader corporate culture in India still has a long way to go. Organizations must take the initiative to create environments where well-being is not an afterthought but a core value. EY, with its strong policies and supportive culture, stands as an example of what is possible when a company truly values its people.
The hope is that more organizations will follow suit, and that one day, workplace tragedies like the one we’ve seen recently will become a thing of the past.
