Shloka Ambani Advocates for Remote Work: ‘We’re Not in a Day and Age for Clocked Hours’

In a significant commentary on the evolving nature of the modern workplace, Shloka Ambani, co-founder of the non-profit organization ConnectFor, has championed a shift away from rigid, time-based work structures towards a more flexible, outcome-oriented model. Her remarks, made during a recent podcast interview, have resonated widely, particularly among professionals grappling with the demands of work-life balance in a post-pandemic world.

Ambani’s core argument is a powerful one: “We are not in a day and age anymore where we can keep an hourly sheet of clocked hours.” This statement encapsulates a growing sentiment that the traditional 9-to-5, in-office paradigm is becoming obsolete. Instead, she advocates for a system where productivity is measured by results and impact, rather than by the number of hours spent at a desk. For Ambani, this is not just a matter of convenience but a fundamental rethink of how we define success and value in a professional context.

Her own experiences as a working mother and philanthropist inform this perspective. In the same interview, she spoke about the importance of being a role model for her children, telling them that “mama has to go to office, like you go to school.” This phrase, however, is not about adhering to a physical location, but about embodying the values of purpose, discipline, and self-improvement. By framing work as a means to better oneself and contribute to the world, she presents a vision of a career that is deeply integrated with personal growth and family life, rather than being in opposition to it.

Ambani’s advocacy for remote and flexible work arrangements is particularly pertinent in India, where the social sector, in which she operates, often faces unique challenges. She highlighted how a focus on outcomes and technology-enabled solutions can create a more inclusive and efficient environment. This approach, she suggests, can attract a more diverse talent pool, including those who might not be able to commit to a full-time, in-office schedule due to other responsibilities.

The move towards an outcome-based model, as advocated by Ambani, offers several potential benefits. It fosters a culture of trust and autonomy, empowering employees to manage their time and work in a way that maximizes their output. It also encourages innovation and creativity, as individuals are free from the constraints of a fixed schedule and can focus on finding the most effective ways to achieve their goals. However, experts also note that this model requires a new approach to management, communication, and technology to be truly successful, and it may not be suitable for every industry or role.

In essence, Shloka Ambani’s comments are a call for a more human-centric and pragmatic approach to work. She challenges the outdated notion that physical presence equates to productivity, and instead, champions a future where meaningful work is defined by its impact, irrespective of when or where it is done. Her perspective adds a significant voice to the ongoing global conversation about the future of work, and the need for workplaces to adapt to the realities of a modern, multi-faceted life.