India’s Job Market in Motion: Professionals Seek Growth, Flexibility, and AI Readiness

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India's employment market is at a turning point, with professionals looking for new positions or negotiating improved compensation within their existing companies. The Talent Trends India 2025 study by Michael Page spotlights major changes in the patterns of employment, with a focus on career mobility, salary negotiations, and the increasing presence of AI in workplaces.

Career Mobility and Salary Negotiations

62% of professionals negotiated a pay raise this year, and 37% successfully achieved a raise, compared to 32% last year.

Employees are focusing on internal career development and are also willing to consider external opportunities, illustrating a proactive response to managing their careers.

Most professionals are searching for positions that fit with their values, ethics, and long-term goals as opposed to purely monetary rewards.

Workplace Priorities and Employee Expectations

Job satisfaction is now insufficient to hold onto talent, with professionals also assessing company culture, flexibility, and opportunities for growth.

Companies that don't connect on deeper levels may lose talent even when proximal conditions are favorable.

Compensation transparency, diversity, and work-life balance now represent a competitive edge for employers.

AI Adoption and Workforce Readiness

64% of Indian professionals are leveraging Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, outpacing worldwide adoption.

High adoption, however, does not translate to 31% of them feeling properly equipped by their organizations to fully harness the power of AI.

Organizations need to transition from passive AI facilitation to formal training and proper communication so that AI boosts human capabilities instead of substituting them.

References: Economic Times, Times of India, Michael Page Report.