Russian Expat Highlights Unique Aspects of Indian Office Culture

A Russian expatriate residing in Bengaluru has shared her observations on the distinctive aspects of Indian office culture that she finds uncommon in her home country. In a recent Instagram post, she highlighted several practices that are prevalent in Indian workplaces but might be considered unusual abroad.

Key Observations

• Personal Inquiries: She noted that Indian colleagues often inquire about each other’s meals, such as whether one has had breakfast or lunch, which she found to be a warm and welcoming gesture.
• Work Hours: The tendency for employees to remain in the office until their superiors have left is another practice she observed, which contrasts with norms in other countries.
• Late-Night Work Calls: Receiving work-related calls late at night, sometimes as late as 11 PM, is common in Indian offices, a practice she found surprising.
• Long Commutes: She mentioned that many employees endure long commutes, sometimes traveling over two hours one way, which is less common in her experience.
• Indirect Communication: The avoidance of direct refusals, such as saying “no” outright, is a cultural nuance she observed in Indian workplaces.
• Celebrations and Festivals: Participating in office celebrations and festivals is a significant aspect of Indian office culture, fostering a sense of community among colleagues.
• Financial Prudence: She was impressed by the financial discipline among Indian professionals, noting that many begin saving and investing from their first salary.
• Competitive Environment: The highly competitive nature of the workplace, with employees often competing across departments, was another aspect she highlighted.

Conclusion

The Russian expatriate’s insights offer a glimpse into the unique facets of Indian office culture, showcasing both the warmth and challenges that characterize the professional environment in India. Her observations contribute to a broader understanding of how workplace norms can vary across cultures.