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Indian employees aim less stress, flexible jobs over career advancement: Indeed Report

A report titled 'Future Career Resolution' shows that 78 per cent of employees interviewed said they aim to prioritise family in 2025 over career advancement.

The image depicts employees in a stress-free, flexible work environment while prioritizing family.

To prepare for this shift, employees are actively working to develop diverse skill sets and are open to new job opportunities or relocations. (Image: AI generated)

Amid debate around the 90-hour work week comments by L&T chairman SN Subrahmanyan, a report by Indeed reveals that Indian employees are prioritising less stressful, flexible and well-paid jobs in 2025 over career advancement. A report titled ‘Future Career Resolution’ by Indeed, a job-hunting online portal, shows that 78 per cent of employees interviewed said they aim to prioritise family in 2025.

Employees want less stress and more focus on mental well-being while being in well-paid jobs that they enjoy and offer flexibility for family and personal interests, stated the report.

The survey involved 6,126 employees and job seekers from Singapore, India, Japan, and Australia, with 2,507 respondents from India between December 2024 and January 2025.

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“We’re seeing a shift in what matters to Indian workers. More people are telling us they want to find a better balance between work and home life. While earning more is important, the dream career for most isn’t about moving up the ladder – it’s about feeling secure, being paid fairly, and having benefits that make a difference,” Indeed Marketing Director (Australia, India and Singapore) Rachael Townsley told to PTI.

Key highlights of the report

–The findings indicate that Indian employees remain optimistic about the job market despite evolving priorities. Over half (55 per cent) of the respondents expressed confidence in the expansion of opportunities within emerging sectors and industries.

–To prepare for this shift, employees are actively working to develop diverse skill sets and are open to new job opportunities or relocations.

–This optimism also extends to the adoption of advanced technologies, with 55 per cent of respondents believing in the growing potential of AI and technology-driven fields.

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–Key skills identified for career advancement in 2025 include emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, data literacy, analytical abilities, and advanced technology competencies such as AI, machine learning, and coding.

–Furthermore, over 59 per cent of Indian employees anticipate a shift in hiring practices, with a greater emphasis on skills-based recruitment rather than traditional degree-based qualifications.

Employers are increasingly valuing candidates who can demonstrate adaptability and specialized skills relevant to rapidly evolving fields, signalling a transformation in how talent is identified and developed.

(with inputs from PTI)