Outlook for 2025: A Projected 9% Growth in Hiring
India’s job market is poised for a robust 9% growth in 2025, according to the foundit Insights Tracker (FIT). The growth will be powered by the IT, Retail, Telecommunications, and BFSI sectors, which are forecasted to lead industry expansion with projected increases of 15%, 12%, 11%, and 10%, respectively.
Key hiring trends for 2025 include:
- Bengaluru (+10%) maintaining its status as India’s leading talent hub, with high demand in IT, startups, and digital services.
- Coimbatore (+9%) emerging as a growing industrial and IT hub, reflecting a shift beyond traditional metros.
- A focus on mid-to-senior level professionals, signalling the demand for strategic capabilities and specialised expertise.
Emerging technologies such as edge computing, quantum applications, and cybersecurity will shape demand for new skills across Manufacturing, Healthcare, IT, and Retail sectors. Additionally, AI-driven HR analytics and blockchain-based skills passports will redefine talent management strategies.
Top Functions to Watch in 2025
- Finance & Accounts (+8%): Projected rise in hiring for strategic roles prioritising digital tools, compliance expertise, and sustainability metrics.
- HR & Admin (+7%): Growth driven by DEI strategies and HR technology adoption.
- IT (+6%): Continued demand for cloud specialists, AI/ML experts, and cybersecurity professionals.
- Hospitality (+5%): Rising demand for tech-enabled guest experiences and sustainable practices.
With Bengaluru and Coimbatore leading city-wise growth, India’s job market is set for expansion across both established and emerging hubs, creating opportunities for businesses and professionals alike.
Key Highlights of 2024: A Year of Resilience and Recovery
2024 witnessed 10.05% annual growth in hiring, showcasing India’s resilience amidst global challenges. The job market maintained momentum throughout the year, driven by strong performances across sectors and geographies.
Industry Performance in 2024
Of the 27 industries tracked, 19 experienced growth, with Manufacturing (+30%) leading the way due to policy support and increased investments. Other notable performers included:
- Consumer Electronics (+29%): Bolstered by demand for advanced tech products.
- Real Estate (+21%): Driven by urbanisation and large-scale projects.
- Construction & Engineering (+19%): Growth supported by renewed focus on infrastructure, with 27% hiring growth in the past six months.
- BFSI (+10%): Benefited from fintech innovation and digital adoption.
- IT – Software & Services (+16%): Cloud computing and cybersecurity roles surged, especially in Tier-2 hubs like Thane and Coimbatore.
Functional Area Trends
Marketing & Communications (+17%) and IT (+14%) dominated functional growth, while healthcare roles continued to be in demand:
- Medical Roles (+5%): Highlighted by advancements in healthcare and increasing demand for specialised professionals.
- Marketing & Communications (+17%): Fueled by digital-first strategies and roles in growth marketing and content management.
- Customer Service (-22%): Declined significantly due to process automation.
- Creative Roles (+3%): Modest growth with stable demand for niche content creation and digital design roles.
Regional Trends
Hiring activity surged in tier-II cities (+8%), with Coimbatore (+27%) and Jaipur (+22%) leading growth. Among metros, Bengaluru (+20%) continued to dominate due to its thriving IT ecosystem.
Experience Level Trends
- Entry-Level Roles (0–3 years, +3%): Growth driven by rising demand for fresh talent, particularly in IT and consumer electronics.
- Associate-Level Roles (4–6 years, +4%): Experienced the highest growth, reflecting strong demand for mid-level professionals.
- Mid-Senior Roles (7–10 years, 0%): Hiring remained steady, focusing on specialised and technical expertise.
- Senior-Level Roles (11-15 years): Declined by 3%, with cautious hiring for leadership roles.
About the foundit Insights Tracker
The foundit Insights Tracker (fit), formerly the Monster Employment Index, provides monthly insights into recruitment activity across industries, functions, locations, and experience levels. This comprehensive report helps businesses and job seekers understand hiring trends and salary benchmarks in a rapidly evolving market.
For more information, reach out to pr@foundit.ai.
