Introduction to Oriental Bank of Commerce

Oriental Bank of Commerce (OBC) is a prominent public sector bank in India known for its supportive work culture. Prior to its merger with Punjab National Bank (PNB) in 2020, OBC was highly regarded for nurturing an environment that supported both employees and their professional growth.

Working Environment Prior to the Merger

The work culture at OBC was characterized by collaboration and mutual support among employees. Employees often felt encouraged to share ideas and contribute to team efforts, fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity. This collaborative environment was further enhanced by the bank's commitment to employee development through various training and development programs aimed at upskilling staff and promoting career advancement.

Another significant aspect of working at OBC was the company's assurance of job security. As a government-backed institution, OBC offered a stable financial safety net, which was particularly crucial for employees in the banking sector. Furthermore, the bank's efforts to balance work and personal life were generally well-received, although the balance could vary depending on one's role and department.

In terms of benefits and compensation, OBC was known for offering competitive salaries and a range of perks typical of public sector banks. These included comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee benefits that provided a sense of security and contentment to employees.

Changes Post-Merger with Punjab National Bank

Following the merger with Punjab National Bank in 2020, several changes have impacted the OBC work environment. One significant change has been the adoption of a cluster system, which has redistributed the business and operational operations across different clusters. For instance, the MSME Cluster and the RAG Cluster each have a maximum of 11 members and handle business ranging from Rs. 10.00 lakhs to Rs. 10 crore and housing, vehicle, and retail loans, respectively.

The cluster system has led to a significant workload, particularly for employees working in these clusters. The pressure to handle a large volume of loans and meet customer demands has intensified, especially in urban and nearby areas with numerous branches. This has resulted in a demanding work environment that may not suit everyone.

Challenges and Work Pressure

Although OBC retains its core strengths, several challenges and issues have surfaced post-merger. One notable issue is the senior-junior dynamic and the necessity to cater to senior employees' needs. This can lead to a less productive work environment, with managers often choosing to sit for extended periods, effectively dictating the working hours of junior staff. The average workday can stretch to at least 11 hours, with branches remaining open beyond traditional business hours.

The current working culture has been described as detrimental to the well-being and productivity of employees. The insistence on prolonged sitting hours without taking into account the biological limitations of human productivity can lead to burnout and reduced effectiveness. The focus on long hours in branches or back offices has been criticized for not contributing to the overall success of the bank, given the importance of balancing work with personal life.

Managers at OBC are viewed as less efficient and more concerned with amassing a long working day. This can negatively impact the morale and productivity of newer employees who are expected to emulate the demanding work schedule. The senior-junior dynamic creates a toxic work environment where junior staff are valued for their presence rather than their contributions.

Perspective and Recommendation

Given the current work environment, individuals who have cracked IBPS or have other recruitment processes should seriously consider whether OBC is the right fit for them. The senior-junior culture and the emphasis on extended working hours can lead to a demotivated and unproductive workforce. These challenges do not align with a balanced and sustainable work-life approach.

For those who are committed to a long-term career in banking, OBC may still offer opportunities for growth and stability. However, potential employees should carefully weigh the benefits of job security and training against the current work pressures and organizational dynamics.

In conclusion, while OBC has a rich history of supporting its employees and fostering a stable work environment, the changes post-merger have introduced challenges that should be carefully considered before joining the bank.