A Shift in Career Strategies: 65% of Indian Professionals Advocating for Internal Growth
Majority of Indians desire wage increase when changing jobs, according to a recent study.
In the dynamic world of work, career progression is no longer confined to jumping ship. A new report by Michael Page sheds light on this transformation, revealing that 65% of Indian job seekers are actively seeking growth within their current organizations, demonstrating a significant switch in career management strategies.
The report, which surveyed over 3,000 professionals of varying seniority levels across various industries, unveils that over half of the job market prefers to negotiate salaries internally rather than searching for new roles. This trend signifies a notable shift in the approach towards career growth.
As media platforms like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Midjourney gain traction, the use of AI at work has skyrocketed. alarmingly, while 64% of Indian professionals are leveraging AI in their work, a staggering 69% feel underprepared to make the most of these tools, with only 31% feeling adequately equipped by their employers.
This lack of preparation creates a void that needs bridging, as organizations must transition from passive AI enablement to active AI readiness. This transformation involves structured training, clear guidelines, and transparent communication on how AI will impact roles. Employees must be assured that AI is an aid, not a replacement for human skills.
In a world governed by ever-evolving AI and uncertain economic conditions, professionals are evolving too. They are becoming more values-driven and future-focused, with job satisfaction no longer being the sole determinant of commitment. Employees are now seeking meaning, agility, and long-term relevance in their roles. Companies that fail to appreciate this shift risk losing their talent, even in favorable circumstances.
This transformation is driven by several key factors. Values and purpose play a significant role, with professionals seeking alignment with company values and a sense of purpose in their roles[1][3]. The emphasis on purpose and ethics indicates that job satisfaction alone is insufficient for loyalty; professionals need to see their growth trajectory and alignment with organizational values[1].
Flexibility and agility are also critical. Employees are looking for the ability to adapt and grow within their current organizations[3]. This desire for flexibility is a key driver in the shift towards proactive career management, where professionals evaluate their roles based on long-term relevance and potential for growth[3].
While economic uncertainty remains a concern, despite the projected 9% growth in the Indian job market in 2025[4][5], this fear drives professionals to be more cautious about changing roles, opting for internal growth opportunities or negotiation over the risk of job loss.
The success rate of salary negotiations within current organizations is on the rise, with 37% of professionals achieving raises, up from 32% last year[1][3]. This trend underscores the growing emphasis on internal career advancement, as professionals seek professional growth within their current companies rather than venturing out into the unknown.
In conclusion, the landscape of career progression is evolving rapidly, with 65% of Indian professionals championing internal growth and prioritizing salary negotiations over job changes. Companies must adapt to this shift, ensuring they engage with their employees on a deeper level to retain their talent and maintain a thriving workforce.
- In the finance industry, the rise of AI is compelling professionals to seek training and preparation to effectively leverage these tools in their defi and business careers.
- As the job market favors internal growth, finance professionals are increasingly advocating for career advancement opportunities within their organizations, rather than pursuing external finance careers.
- In the dynamic market, business careers are no longer just about job satisfaction, but also about meaning, agility, and long-term relevance, influencing professionals to reconsider their career strategies and focus on internal growth.