Employee Perceptions in the COVID Scenario
Insights from a Nationwide Survey on Workforce Sentiment During Crisis
Why This Report Matters
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted not only business operations but also the psychological and financial stability of employees across sectors. As organizations scrambled to adapt, the Employee Survey on COVID by HRhelpdesk® provides a timely and critical lens into how employees perceived their employers’ decisions, preparedness, and empathy during this unprecedented time.
With 837 qualified responses from employees across diverse industries and roles, this report captures the pulse of the Indian workforce highlighting what they were willing to accept, what they feared, and what they expected from their organizations moving forward.
This report is essential for HR leaders, CXOs, and policymakers seeking to build resilient, empathetic, and future-ready workplaces.
Survey Overview
- Survey Period: March 26 – April 20, 2020
- Total Responses: 1298 (837 qualified)
- Participants: Employees from 837 organizations across sectors
- Roles Covered: From blue-collar staff to CEOs
- Industries Represented: IT, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail, Education, Government, and more
Key Findings
Financial Adjustments
- 77% of employees were comfortable with postponing salary increments.
- Only 45% supported salary cuts, with junior staff showing the least acceptance.
- 57% agreed to not receiving bonuses, though many expected selective payouts.
- Interestingly, 73% still hoped for 8–10% salary increments, showing optimism despite uncertainty.