
A recent report has revealed a significant shift in the priorities of Indian employees, with 78% of those surveyed stating that their main goal for 2025 is to prioritize family over career growth. This comes amid ongoing discussions about work-life balance, particularly following remarks by L&T chairman S N Subrahmanyan, who suggested a 90-hour work week.
According to Indeed’s Future Career Resolution Report, which surveyed over 6,100 employees across India, Singapore, Japan, and Australia, most Indian workers are now focused on spending more time with their families, including spouses, children, and parents. The report highlights that employees want to reduce stress and improve their mental well-being while maintaining well-paid jobs that offer flexibility for personal and family interests.
Rachael Townsley, Marketing Director for Indeed in Australia, India, and Singapore, commented on the findings, saying, “We’re definitely seeing a shift in what matters to Indian workers. More and 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 climbing the corporate ladder—it’s about feeling secure, being paid fairly, and having benefits that truly make a difference.”
The report is based on a survey conducted by Valuvox between December 2024 and January 2025, which reached 6,126 employees and job seekers. Of these, 2,507 respondents were from India.
Along with the shift in priorities, Indian workers remain optimistic about the job market. Over half (55%) of respondents expressed confidence in the growth of opportunities in emerging sectors and industries. Many are actively building diverse skill sets and staying flexible, ready to explore new job opportunities or relocate if necessary.
The report also noted that Indian workers are optimistic about the growing potential of AI and technology-driven fields, with 55% of respondents confident about the future of these industries. Key skills for career advancement in 2025 include emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, data literacy, and expertise in advanced technologies like AI, machine learning, and coding.
Additionally, the report found that 59% of Indian employees expect a shift in hiring practices, with a stronger emphasis on skills-based recruitment rather than traditional degree-based qualifications. This reflects the rising demand for roles in emerging industries such as technology and AI, where practical skills are often more important than formal educational credentials.
Employers are increasingly valuing candidates who can demonstrate adaptability and specialized skills relevant to rapidly evolving fields, signaling a transformation in how talent is identified and developed, the report concluded.