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India’s job market for fresh graduates is showing strong momentum for the second half of 2025, with e-commerce and technology startups emerging as the top recruiters. According to the Career Outlook Report (HY2 2025) by TeamLease EdTech, 88 percent of employers in these sectors have expressed intent to hire freshers between July and December. Despite a slight dip in overall hiring sentiment compared to the first half of the year, opportunities remain robust in high-growth industries, signaling a dynamic shift in how companies are investing in young talent.
Key highlights from the report
- E-commerce and tech startups lead fresher hiring with 88 percent intent
- Retail (87 percent) and manufacturing (82 percent) closely follow as major fresher recruiters
- Overall fresher hiring intent has softened to 70 percent for July–December, down from 74 percent in January–June
- AI-led restructuring, global trade uncertainties, and retention of experienced talent are influencing hiring strategies
- Degree apprenticeship programs are gaining traction across sectors
Sector-wise hiring trends
1. E-commerce and Technology Startups
These sectors are driving the fresher hiring wave, fueled by rapid digital transformation, increased consumer demand, and expansion into tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Startups are seeking candidates with a blend of technical skills, adaptability, and human-centric problem-solving abilities. Roles in AI, data analytics, product development, and customer experience are particularly in demand.
2. Retail and Manufacturing
Retail continues to show strong hiring intent, especially in omnichannel operations, logistics, and customer engagement. Manufacturing is also ramping up fresher recruitment, with a focus on automation, supply chain optimization, and sustainable production practices.
3. Apprenticeship Opportunities
The report highlights a steady rise in demand for degree apprenticeships, which combine academic learning with hands-on experience.
- Manufacturing leads with 37 percent apprenticeship hiring intent
- Engineering and infrastructure follow at 29 percent
- Information technology shows 18 percent intent
City-wise breakdown
Bengaluru, Chennai, and Pune are emerging as hotspots for apprenticeship hiring:
- Bengaluru: 37 percent
- Chennai: 30 percent
- Pune: 26 percent
These cities are leveraging their strong industrial and tech ecosystems to offer structured learning and employment pathways for freshers.
Small vs large enterprises
Smaller organizations are showing a notable inclination to hire freshers, driven by agility and the need for cost-effective talent. However, their hiring capacity remains limited compared to larger enterprises. Startups, in particular, are using fresher hiring as a strategic lever to build scalable teams while maintaining lean operations.
Skills in demand
Employers are increasingly prioritizing candidates who demonstrate:
- Technical proficiency in emerging tools and platforms
- Adaptability to evolving work environments
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Willingness to learn through apprenticeships and on-the-job training
Impact of AI and global trends
The slight dip in overall hiring intent is attributed to AI-led workforce restructuring, which is reshaping job roles and reducing redundancy. Additionally, global trade uncertainties and a strategic focus on retaining experienced talent in core industries have led companies to recalibrate their hiring plans. Despite these challenges, the demand for freshers remains strong in sectors that are innovating rapidly and scaling operations.
Closing thoughts
India’s fresher job market is evolving, with startups and tech-driven companies leading the charge. The rise of degree apprenticeships and city-specific hiring trends reflect a broader shift toward skill-based, experiential learning. For fresh graduates, the second half of 2025 offers a promising landscape—one that rewards agility, curiosity, and a willingness to grow with the industry.
Sources: The Hindu BusinessLine, Business Standard, Rediff Money, Economic Times
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