MUMBAI, INDIA, September 29, 2008: Call centers are giving new meaning to the term, “dead-end job.” The hours are long and overtime is demanded. The work is simultaneously stressful and mind-numbing. Promotion is rare and salaries have fallen.
India’s youth are becoming disenchanted. Many are leaving the industry, either to complete their education or to move immediately into another field. Even lesser-paying jobs elsewhere are seen as more rewarding, if there is hope of advancement. New applicants are scarce, and the industry has lowered its hiring standards in the effort to remain fully staffed. US companies, which have supplied 70% of all outsourced work, are starting to take their business elsewhere.
Recently a 23-year-old man, employed at a Mumbai call center, has suffered a heart attack. The doctor’s diagnosis: modern lifestyle–stress and odd hours of work.