Meanwhile, 51% of GenZ professionals are turning to freelance and side hustles for additional income, a figure that rises to 59% among B-school students.
Human Resources has emerged as a top career choice among engineering students, reflecting evolving industry demands.
A new talent report has revealed a significant shift in hiring and workplace trends, with 83% of engineering graduates and 46% of business graduates remaining without a job or internship offer. Meanwhile, 51% of GenZ professionals are turning to freelance and side hustles for additional income, a figure that rises to 59% among B-school students.
The findings, revealed by Unstop, further show that 73% of recruiters now prioritise skills over degrees from prestigious institutions. The report, based on a survey of over 30,000 GenZ professionals and 700 HR leaders, highlights growing employment challenges, changing career aspirations, and workplace expectations.
The report also exposes a persistent gender pay gap, particularly among Arts & Science graduates. Two in three women in these fields earn below Rs 6 LPA, while most of their male counterparts surpass this salary mark. However, pay parity was observed in B-schools and E-schools, where salaries remained consistent across genders.
In workplace culture, a disconnect between GenZ talent and recruiters was evident. While 77% of young professionals prefer frequent performance feedback—either monthly or project-based—71% of recruiters still follow traditional annual or biannual reviews. Additionally, while 70% of GenZ candidates actively participate in case studies, ideathons, and simulations, only 25% of recruiters use them as a key hiring tool.
The report also highlights a shift in career preferences. Human Resources has emerged as a top career choice among engineering students, reflecting evolving industry demands. Additionally, one in four undergraduates took up unpaid internships in 2024, a sharp increase from one in eight in 2023.
On the employer front, tech giants continue to dominate dream job rankings. Google, Microsoft, and Amazon remain the top choices for engineering graduates, while business graduates prefer Google, McKinsey, and Microsoft. However, GenZ professionals are increasingly drawn to next-generation firms, with companies like Zomato and Meesho gaining popularity.
As hiring patterns evolve, the report underscores a growing shift towards skill-based hiring, flexible work expectations, and alternative career paths. With freelancing, side gigs, and non-traditional employment on the rise, both recruiters and job seekers are navigating a rapidly changing employment landscape.
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