Infosys starts BPO Idol contest for employees

Taking a cue from the success of 'Indian Idol', a popular television talent contest, Infosys BPO has now started a similar contest for its employees.

Infosys BPO Idol, as the contest is known, is expected to get the employees involved in activities other than business, and "create a vibrant, passionate and culturally stimulating workplace," says the company.

The show has been organised on the lines of 'American Idol'. The elimination rounds have already been held. To maintain the same aura and energy around the event, Infosys BPO has introduced the concept of wildcard entries, SMS voting system and a live band. Each participant is given time to practice with the band to ensure their singing is flawless.

The SMS voting system was introduced in the fifth round, which had 10 contestants. The SMS votes are given 20 per cent weightage, according to organisers. In a week, following the start of the fifth round, the event has received 5,525 SMS votes.

Besides, the company is also sending out mailers on each participant called 'Know Your Infy Idol', wherein the participants share personal information. Each participant is also expected to canvass for votes with innovative ideas to increase his SMS poll rating.

Said Newtom Paul, a participant: "I feel Infosys BPO Idol is a great opportunity to show my talent. Very few people know I can sing, Infosys BPO Idol has given me the much-needed exposure. I have also established friendships with other colleagues."

The event is being organised at three locations in India including Jaipur, Pune and Bangalore. For the final round scheduled at Infosys' Bangalore campus on December 21, Bollywood playback singer Kavita Krishnamurthy will be the judge.

The winners of the contest will be awarded an all-expenses paid trip to Singapore for two persons. The other six finalists would get an i-Pod shuffle.

"The participants of Infosys Idol are given opportunities to participate at all our other events and functions. We are providing them with various platforms to showcase their talent," said Nandita Gurjar, Group Head, HR, Infosys Technologies.

Looking at the response received for the Infosys BPO idol, Infosys BPO is looking at continuing the event next year and make it an annual affair.

Infosys BPO, which was in the news till recently for high attrition, is planning to organise many such events to get the employees involved with the organisation.

The company is now toying with the idea of a theatre festival for the employees. The event is expected to foster team-building within the company, "Since every play is done by a team of people, everything has to be in tandem," said a source.