Lalit Kanodia and Anju Kanodia: Pioneering Flexible Work Solutions with Wakency

In the ever-evolving landscape of employment, Lalit Kanodia and Anju Kanodia have emerged as trailblazers, addressing the growing demand for flexible work solutions in India. Lalit Kanodia, the founder of Mumbai-based IT software firm Datamatics, and Anju Kanodia, his daughter-in-law, are instrumental in steering Datamatics towards a new frontier with the launch of Wakency — India’s first on-demand flexible work community.

Lalit Kanodia, an industry veteran and the founder of Datamatics, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Having played a key role in setting up Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in 1967, Kanodia has been at the forefront of India’s IT revolution. His visionary leadership has not only shaped Datamatics into a leading IT software firm but has also fueled innovation in the ever-evolving tech industry.

Anju Kanodia, the business head of Wakency, is a dynamic entrepreneur with a keen understanding of market dynamics. The genesis of Wakency can be traced back to Anju’s personal experience — a decade-long hiatus from the workforce to focus on raising her children. Her return highlighted a gap in the market: the need for short-term, flexible job opportunities that align with professionals’ schedules and preferences.

The impetus for Wakency came not only from personal experiences but also from insightful data. Anju Kanodia recognized the tremendous growth potential in the temporary staffing sector, which was predominantly unorganized. The gig economy, characterized by flexible and contractual jobs, was on the cusp of explosive growth, and Wakency aimed to tap into this trend.

Proprietary Technology — ‘MatchWaker’: Wakency leverages cutting-edge technology, including machine learning and artificial intelligence, to match employers with job seekers seamlessly. The proprietary ‘MatchWaker’ algorithm ensures optimal matches based on preferences, skills, and availability.

Uber for Jobs Concept: Anju Kanodia aptly describes Wakency as the “Uber for jobs.” The platform empowers users to access part-time, freelance, and short-term job opportunities at their convenience. This flexibility resonates with a broad spectrum of professionals, from new mothers to those seeking personalized work arrangements.

Addressing a Cultural Shift: Anju Kanodia acknowledges that introducing a first-of-its-kind job platform comes with challenges. Wakency’s unique approach to on-demand hiring required a cultural shift, both from job seekers and employers. However, the platform’s innovative technology has played a pivotal role in fostering this change.

Wakency’s entry into the gig economy aligns with the shifting dynamics of the Indian workforce. Millennials, in particular, are driving the gig economy’s expansion, seeking more flexibility and personalized work arrangements. Anurag Malik, Partner and India Workforce Advisory Leader at EY India, notes that the gig economy provides employment opportunities across various professions, including software development, creative and multimedia roles, online sales, marketing, and more.

As Wakency gains momentum in Mumbai, Anju Kanodia envisions expanding its footprint across India. The platform’s goal is to become a nationwide solution for individuals and organizations embracing the gig economy. The first-mover advantage, coupled with Datamatics’ unique data handling capabilities, positions Wakency as a formidable player in the evolving landscape of flexible work solutions.

In conclusion, Lalit Kanodia and Anju Kanodia’s foray into the gig economy with Wakency underscores their commitment to innovation and addressing the evolving needs of the workforce. Wakency not only transforms data into opportunities but also signifies a significant step towards empowering professionals with the freedom to work on their terms.