The Golden Handcuff and Other Sob Stories

Employers are offering more money and perks to employees in order to retain them. Why do they feel being caged then?

- Mamta Sharma

Rajesh Batra (name changed), a senior HR professional, joined an MNC in 2021 with an irresistible offer—attractive stock options and performance-based bonuses that would only vest if he stayed for at least five years. What started as a golden opportunity, soon felt like a trap. "The first three years were exciting. I was setting up the team, leading transformations, and driving change. But as my passion for the job dwindled, the last two years felt like being caged. The incentives kept me locked in, but my growth and motivation were declining."