Skills And Confidence Tested: Indian Professionals Struggle To Adapt To AI-Driven Job Market

India’s workforce is facing a critical transition as artificial intelligence reshapes hiring practices. According to LinkedIn’s latest research, 84% of professionals feel unprepared to switch jobs, despite 72% expressing intent to seek new opportunities in 2026. The findings highlight growing anxiety around skills relevance and the complexity of modern recruitment.

While 87% of respondents are comfortable using AI at work, many remain uneasy about its role in hiring. Concerns include lengthy recruitment stages, impersonal processes, and slower recruiter responses. Rising competition and uncertainty about role fit further compound the challenge, underscoring the urgent need for reskilling and adaptability.

Key Highlights

• 84% of Indian professionals feel unprepared for job changes in 2026
• 72% are actively seeking new roles despite uncertainty
• 76% say job searches have become tougher due to competition and skills gaps
• 87% are comfortable with AI at work but wary of its use in hiring
• Recruitment seen as increasingly impersonal, with slower response times from recruiters

Sources: LinkedIn Research via Times Now News, MSN News