Pandemic-Induced Work Practices Impacting Job Satisfaction and Retention; Automobile Industry Perspective

Abstract

Purpose: The study helps to unpin changes in the work practices at various Plant and Office locations in Chennai, India. The transformation was studied in the context of the pandemic and consequent business trends. Diverse scholarly literature was referred to understand the accelerated trends impacting work practices.   Theoretical framework: As a result of massive fluctuations in supply and demand, there was a need for immediate adaptation, improvement, and increased customer support. Companies tried to ensure their survival by cutting costs; many have laid -off their employees.   Design/methodology/approach: The study is empirical and descriptive in nature, with a sample size of 60 collected from leading auto manufacturers.   Statistical tools such as SPSS and Smart Pls were used to analyze the data. Data was collected from automobile employees in Chennai/ India.   Findings: The findings indicate that the industry has a large demographic dividend; hence, upskilling of workers, automation, digitalization and emerging technology will be a game-changer. The results also indicate the positive impact of job satisfaction on employee retention and productivity. The findings conclusively enhance the understanding of technology, accelerating upskilling job satisfaction and consequently aiding employee retention.   Research, practical & social implications: Technology, automation, and shopfloor dynamics will drive productivity, performance, and smart manufacturing practices. We will experience less number of workers on the shop floor and more machines that drive production, enhance productivity and performance at the shop floor with minimal human interface.   Originality/value: The finding has implications for the people in the industry, which has a vast demographic dividend and need to upskill its worker for the new wave; hence efforts have to be made by the organization, including massive investments in upskilling its employees to be ready to embrace technology, use of AI and robotics at the shop floor for production, enhancing value through intelligent manufacturing practices.