Indian professionals show stronger trust in leadership than APAC (57%) and global (49%) averages, as clarity, flexibility, and purpose reshape the workplaceDelhi, 30 May 2025 - The latest Talent Trends India 2025 report by Michael Page reveals a defining shift in what Indian professionals value most at work. Based on insights from nearly 3,000 professionals across the country, the report highlights five critical areas where clarity is now the currency of trust and retention: culture, technology, salary, values, and flexibility.Culture: Trust and transparency take centre stageIndia leads the region in workplace trust, with 61% of professionals expressing high or complete trust in their leadership—well above the APAC (57%) and global (49%) averages. Transparency is also a standout strength, with 65% of employees rating their organisations as open and communicative. From sharing financials to responding to feedback, Indian companies are increasingly building cultures rooted in openness and mutual respect.Salary: Internal growth gains groundWhile 65% of professionals are actively seeking new roles, many are now negotiating for better pay within their current organisations. 62% negotiated a raise this year, and 37% succeeded—signaling a shift toward internal advancement. Yet, a disconnect remains: professionals prioritize purpose, ethics, and flexibility, while employers still overemphasize brand appeal. Companies that align with what talent truly values will win the race for retention.Technology: GenAI Adoption soars, but guidance lagsWith 64% of professionals using GenAI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, India is ahead of global adoption curves. However, only 31% feel well-prepared by their employers to use these tools effectively. While GenAI boosts productivity and job satisfaction, the lack of structured guidance is creating uncertainty—especially as 42% view AI as a threat to job security. Clearer policies and training are now essential to harness AI’s full potential.Values: Inclusivity still a work in progressDespite progress in gender equity—with 56% of women satisfied with pay gap efforts—inclusivity remains a challenge. 76% of employees feel they cannot be their authentic selves at work, and ageism is the most reported bias, affecting 40% of respondents. Professionals are calling for workplaces that not only talk about inclusion but actively foster belonging and psychological safety.Flexibility: A Non-Negotiable ExpectationHybrid work is holding steady at 43%, but 61% of hybrid workers say they would leave if required to spend more time in the office. Even those satisfied with their roles and pay are unwilling to compromise on flexibility. The message is clear: flexibility is no longer a perk—it’s a baseline expectation, and companies that fail to offer it risk losing top talent.“In today’s talent landscape, clarity is no longer optional—it’s a strategic imperative. Indian professionals are asking direct questions about flexibility, values, technology, and trust—and they expect honest, transparent answers. The organisations that respond with clarity and purpose will not only attract top talent but also build the kind of resilient, future-ready cultures that thrive in uncertainty,” observes Nilay Khandelwal, Senior Managing Director, Michael Page India & Singapore.The Talent Trends India 2025 report highlights a pivotal moment for Indian employers. As professionals grow more discerning and values-driven, the ability to offer clarity—on culture, compensation, flexibility, technology, and inclusivity—has become a true competitive advantage. In a market shaped by rapid change and rising expectations, organisations that lead with transparency and purpose will not only attract top talent but also build workplaces where people choose to stay, grow, and thrive.Methodology: All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from an online survey conducted by PageGroup and UNLIMITED. Talent Trends 25 is a 20 minute, quantitative online survey, conducted by UNLIMITED on behalf of PageGroup between 4th November 2024 and 19th December 2024.A total of 49,396 surveys were completed with candidates of which 15,726 were also clients. This includes 38,202 through PageGroup’s database, and a further 11,194 via a research panel partner.Data has been weighted by country to the known proportion of each country based on PageGroup’s database.About Michael Page India:Michael Page is a leading global recruitment firm specialising in permanent, contract, and temporary recruitment. With over 40 years of experience, Michael Page operates in 37 countries worldwide and has a strong presence in India. The company's mission is to connect the world's best talent with leading businesses.Michael Page launched its India business in 2011 and currently has over 200+ specialist recruiters working on mid to senior level roles in 11 disciplines across offices in Mumbai, Delhi NCR and Bengaluru.The companies we partner with in India range from large multinationals and Indian conglomerates, to small and medium sized companies across Digital & Analytics, Engineering & Manufacturing, Finance & Accounting, Financial Services, Healthcare & Life Sciences, Human Resources, Legal, Procurement & Supply Chain, Property & Construction, Sales & Marketing and Technology.For Further Information Contact – Deepika Girdhar – Deepika.girdhar@prpundithavasred.com Ambica Kaul – Ambica.kaul@prpundithavasred.com
