Moonlighting, where employees work at one time with multiple jobs. The practice of working multiple jobs while being a full-time employee, has emerged as a significant challenge in the Indian IT service sector, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Moonlighting in the Indian industry is challenging, not just for companies but also for employees. Why? Let’s read the full article & understand their challenges, solutions, & more.
As organizations navigate this issue, background verification firms have emerged as crucial allies in upholding the integrity of their workforce. Let’s delve into the intricacies of moonlighting, its repercussions, and the measures companies are adopting to tackle this phenomenon.
Moonlighting in the Indian Industry: A Report
As per recent reports, the COVID-19 pandemic witnessed a surge in moonlighting, with approximately 4–5% of IT professionals taking on external paid roles alongside their full-time employment. This uptick was fueled by the shift to remote work and the resultant flexibility it offered. However, as companies transitioned back to traditional office setups, moonlighting instances decreased to around 1-2%.
Moonlighting in the Indian Industry: Challenges
A significant challenge in combating moonlighting lies in employees’ ability to circumvent detection systems. Many background check companies are deploying advanced techniques to identify dual employment scenarios. Utilizing tools such as the Universal Account Number (UAN), these firms access comprehensive employment histories to pinpoint overlaps or discrepancies. This proactive approach is imperative for upholding workforce integrity.
Top Company cases
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Leading IT firms such as Wipro and Infosys have taken decisive measures against moonlighting. As per the Times of India article, Wipro’s chairman, Rishad Premji, understands the seriousness of this issue, resulting in the termination of employees engaged in dual employment with competitors. Infosys has also issued a warning of disciplinary action for moonlighting incidents.
Moonlighting in the Indian Industry: Solutions
Companies are transitioning from sporadic checks during onboarding to regular quarterly verification. This shift is particularly noticeable among firms embracing hybrid work models. Moreover, there’s a heightened emphasis on employment history verification to detect overlaps and flag suspicious activities effectively.
Conclusion
Moonlighting remains a significant challenge for the Indian IT services sector, necessitating proactive measures and stringent verification processes. By collaborating with reliable background verification firms and leveraging advanced technologies, companies can safeguard their operations and foster trust within their workforce.
As per their conclusion, combating moonlighting demands a comprehensive approach involving technology, policy enforcement, and a culture of integrity within organizations. As the landscape evolves, companies must maintain vigilance and proactivity to effectively address this intricate issue and uphold a transparent and trustworthy work environment.
