Why I Left TCS: A Journey Through Troubles and Toxins

Imagine a situation where you have been blessed with a lifespan of 1 lakh years but you know your life will be full of troubles. This is the life in TCS. This article delves into my personal experience as an IT analyst at TCS, detailing the challenges and eventual decision to leave the company.

Life at TCS: An Analysis

TCS, known for its job security and best medical insurance, is a double-edged sword. While it offers financial stability and benefits, the daily grind at TCS can be taxing. From undergoing a meticulous onboarding process to the tedious task of bag checks at security, the company's procedures can be anything but straightforward.

Challenges within the Company

One of the most significant challenges at TCS is the need for a criminal affidavit before joining. Furthermore, the onboarding process can be arduous, especially when switching between projects. Even the simple act of bag checking at security adds an unnecessary layer of complexity.

Managerial and Project Issues

My experience as an IT analyst for 4 years paints a picture of the managerial and project challenges faced within TCS. Many managers have over a decade of experience, yet their management skills leave much to be desired. They often fail to handle project situations effectively or even demonstrate a lack of concern.

Documentation and Learning Obligations

Working on projects at TCS, particularly “support projects,” can be disheartening. Despite technological aptitude, the focus often lies on documentation rather than practical application. This can be frustrating for those hoping to grow their skills.

Client Escalations and Communication

Managerial responses to client escalations are often unhelpful. They emphasize that “that’s how TCS works,” suggesting a culture of apathy and resignation. As an employee, you might express your concerns but receive a response like, “Your name. This is how TCS works,” a phrase that encapsulates the company’s 'Chalta hain' culture.

Project Management Nightmare

A case in point is a project where outdated systems, frequent network failures, and the company’s insistence on monthly Microsoft Office updates created a frustrating work environment. Documentation tasks, like writing test cases, were rendered obsolete due to network issues that corrupted recordings during important meetings.

Resource Management and Personal Struggles

Team members often complained about false promises and the difficulties in obtaining necessary resources. For instance, a teammate struggled with installing Microsoft Office, settling for an inferior alternative like OpenOffice. Such struggles further compounded the already challenging work environment.

Managerial and Leave Policies

To add to the challenges, leave policies were often rigid and unforgiving. Managers would expect immediate leave approval, sometimes reacting as if you were asking for their kidney. This added to the overall negative experience at the workplace.

Role Management and Development

The RMG (Rough Management Group) department at TCS often seemed to be populated by individuals who were more engaged with each other than with their work. Engagements with RMGs were often unproductive and time-wasting, further adding to the bureaucratic nature of the work environment.

Personal and Professional Impact

For someone not in a senior position, or lacking in mental fortitude, TCS can be a toxic work environment. Projects can feel like a never-ending struggle, with virtually no way of escape. Eventually, one begins to wonder, "Why am I here? What am I doing here?" As time passes, many regret their decision to join TCS, let alone resign from it.

Resigned Thoughts

I left TCS in August 2020, feeling fortunate to be free from this toxic culture. If you are planning to join TCS, make sure you have backup plans. Prioritizing your own growth and development outside the company can be a wise decision.

Final Thoughts

As you navigate the challenges of TCS, remember that as the time passes, you may find yourself constantly questioning your presence and contributions. This experience should serve as a reminder that careful considerations and careful planning are crucial when making career decisions.