HDFC Standard Life Insurance Company Ltd; Culture and Values: Integral part of Life

HDFC Standard Life is an organization committed to the development of its employees. Ranked #34 in
the Great Place to Work Institutes study, #1 in the Industry Category of the Insurance sector and
recognized in the Special Category of Unique Company Initiative, the company offers its employees
various platforms to grow and develop from.
Culture and values are an integral part of the organization. Says Rajendra Ghag, Executive President, HR,
HDFC is a very strong brand in itself. The legacy of the holding company helps us retain our image as a
value based institution. Values and culture are traits which are embedded in our organization and are
reinforced often. I believe these concepts should be instilled at an early stage. We have a very strong
employee on boarding process where every person who joins us is explained the importance of our
culture. First impression is always the last impression, and to emphasize this, our first hour of the first
day of any new employee starts with a detailed presentation on our companys history, values and
culture. Once the importance is understood it becomes easier to be followed by all.
Working in an environment of fairness and transparency, the management seeks feedback consistently
from all employees through Sparsh. This is a platform where employees are free to express their ideas
and create an atmosphere of open dialogue. The company has a program called GOAL (Go Online and
Learn) which provides online courses to employees and can be completed at their convenience and
pace. This aids in refreshing knowledge and skills on a continuous basis. Prospective employees also
have access to this program to make them feel involved.
In addition to the above, internal promotions are given preference rather than external hiring.
Interestingly 30-35%of the vacancies of this organization are filled internally. This reflects positively on
the organization and promotes employee morale.
The importance of giving back to the society is well understood by all employees of HDFCSL. The
company organized a Joy of Giving Week where employees donated in kind through a series of events
scheduled over a week; this was initiated by Give India. A Creative Auction was also organized for
raising funds for donation, for instance, an Umbrella Painting competition was held at the Corporate
Office. Many employees participated in the competition and displayed their painting talents by painting
umbrellas. The fund raised through this event was donated to the Help Trust for rehabilitation of a sex
workers child.
We ask a few questions to Rajendra Ghag to gain further insights about what makes HDFSCL an
appealing proposition to employees.

What is that one attribute of your organization which seems appealing to prospective employees?
Rajendra Ghag: In simple terms I would say HDFC Standard Life Insurance is one of the few companies
perceived by the customer as a long-term value-based company. My own experience says it all. Having
joined a year back, my first day in the company was a memorable one. I was comfortable in the
environment, all my queries were answered and I was made to feel a part of the organization.

How important is it for HDFC Standard Life to be a great workplace?
Rajendra Ghag: Being a great workplace is a reflection of the companys work culture and positively
reinforces all our people management practices. It is important for us as it is a proof of us going in the
right direction. We present a good proposition for employees and are a people-centric organization. This
along with our brand and name in the industry makes us an employer of choice.


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