With India’s workforce growing by millions each year, relatively low cost of labour, and moderate English proficiency, India’s talent market is one with great advantages to both local and global companies. This article shares insights into how to take advantage of Indian talent pools and what tips to bear in mind when considering entering this market.
The market at a glance
Size of workforce
Those who work for pay or profit for at least one hour a week, or who have a job but are temporarily not at work due to illness, leave or industrial action
521.9m
people
Employment rate
The ratio of the employed to the working age
50.2%
Education rate
% of population (25-44 yrs old) with tertiary graduation rates
26.93%
Cost of labour
Average wages
N/A
English proficiency index (world)
The world's largest ranking of countries and regions by English skills
#27/80
Moderate proficiency
English proficiency index (Europe)
Asia's largest ranking of countries and regions by English skills
#4/20
Moderate proficiency
Finding the right talent
Social media is popular for recruitment in India, with local LinkedIn users surpassing 42 million last year, and many job seekers looking online for new roles.
Employee referrals also play a strong part in recruiting in India, with a 2016 LinkedIn study revealing that 65% of Indian talent leaders saying their organizations have best-in-class programs that are leveraged effectively. Job board sites like Monster are great for “fresher” (new university graduate) talent, and LinkedIn is used at the more senior levels. Naukri.com is a well-established site to target talent in India.
Additionally, print ads in newspapers like Indiatimes are still an effective way to garner interest from candidates.
Things to keep in mind
India’s labour rules have historically been strict, with recent changes in 2018 allowing for more flexibility in hiring contract workers, and encouraging a boost in job creation. Unemployment in India is higher than 7%, meaning there are over 31 million people who are without jobs, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is making changes to alleviate this growing problem.
The Government of India Ministry of Labour & Employment website is the most comprehensive resource for understanding the laws.
Business culture between cities in India can vary, so if unfamiliar with the local landscape, it is recommended to visit the area and conduct meetings or interviews in person. As in most countries, hiring local talent can ensure that employees are engaged in the long term.
Sources:
- Total 2017 Labour force
- % of working age population
- Gross enrolment in tertiary education
- Average wage
- English proficiency index
- Live Mint
- Live Mint