A comprehensive survey by Indeed reveals that 70% of respondents felt entry-level positions frequently require previous work experience, creating what the report describes as an 'experience paradox' for fresh graduates entering the labour market. According to the survey conducted among 2,633 jobseekers and employees across India, this trend has made securing first jobs significantly more challenging than it was three to five years ago. The findings highlight growing challenges for young professionals despite continued expansion in sectors such as technology, services and e-commerce.
The survey reveals stark reality about career expectations among young Indians. Only 14% of respondents said they expected their first job to match their preferred role, company and location, while 43% said financial pressures or a lack of opportunities were forcing them to compromise on career choices. As reported by Indeed, Rohan Sylvester, Talent Strategy Advisor at Indeed, noted that 'for many young people, the first job is no longer a simple transition from college to career. It is becoming a long and uncertain phase filled with constant applications, delayed responses and growing pressure to compromise.'
The survey identifies significant barriers in the hiring process that young candidates face. 49% of respondents identified getting shortlisted as the biggest challenge in the hiring process, while 61% said they rarely or never hear back after submitting job applications. Limited access to work experience opportunities further complicates the situation, with only one in five respondents reporting having access to paid internships during their studies, and 18% saying they had no access to internships, projects, placements or freelance work at all. This lack of feedback and visibility is contributing to prolonged job searches and uncertainty among candidates.
The prolonged job search is taking a significant emotional toll on young candidates. According to the survey, nearly 64% said repeated applications and rejections had reduced their confidence and motivation, while only 20% felt they were currently on track with their intended career path. These findings come amid broader concerns over youth employment in India, where policymakers have increasingly emphasised skilling, apprenticeships and industry-academia partnerships to improve employability among graduates. The report underscores the importance of structured support systems such as internships, placement cells and career guidance in improving early outcomes.
