Tata Consultancy Services (The biggest employer of women among the 500 most valuable companies) has reported a higher attrition rate among women in FY 23. According to Milind Lakkad the Chief human resource officer (TCS), the decision to end work-from-home might be one of the major reasons for the higher attrition rate among women."There might be other reasons, but I would think working from home during the pandemic reset the domestic arrangements for some women, keeping them from returning to office even after everything normalised", said Milind Lakkad in a quote to Mint. He called this new development "unusual" and a "setback" to the Tata Groups efforts to promote gender diversity. While the internet hosts various articles on this issue, the majority of them tend to present a detached third-person perspective, lacking a personal touch or relatability.

So we at Medicircle decided to ask our very own female employees who operate from home, in an attempt to get their perspective on why they prefer Work From Home rather than Work From Office.

In this process, we came across some common factors that may contribute to this preference:

1. Flexibility: Working from home provides greater flexibility in managing work and personal responsibilities. This can be beneficial for women who juggle multiple roles, such as being a caregiver, parent, or managing household duties. Working from home allows for better work-life integration and the ability to make schedules to accommodate various commitments.

2. Reduced Commute and Cost Savings: Commuting to the office can be time-consuming, stressful, and expensive, especially in major cities with higher populations and lesser means of public transport. Women who work from home eliminate the need for daily commutes, saving time and money on transportation costs. This can contribute to a better work-life balance, reduced stress, and increased productivity.

3. Health and Well-being: Factors such as workplace stress, office politics, long hours, and a lack of work-life balance can negatively impact mental and physical health. Working from home may provide a less stressful and more relaxed environment, contributing to improved overall well-being.

4. Improved Work-Life Balance: Remote work can facilitate a better work-life balance by eliminating the separation between personal and professional life that traditional office settings may impose. Women can seamlessly integrate work and personal responsibilities, such as attending to family needs, without compromising their professional commitments.

5. Accessibility and Inclusivity: Remote work can enhance accessibility and inclusivity for women, especially those who face challenges related to physical disabilities, caregiving responsibilities, or geographical limitations. Working from home can eliminate barriers and provide equal opportunities for career advancement and professional growth.

It's important to note that individual preferences can vary, and not all women have the same reasons for favouring working from home. It is also important to recognize the fact that while working from home offers several advantages, it may not be preferred by everyone. Some individuals thrive in a traditional office environment and value face-to-face interactions, teamwork, and the social aspect of working in a shared space. The preference for working from home can vary depending on personal circumstances, job requirements, and individual preferences