India's job market is vast and diverse, yet navigating it can be challenging, especially for students and expatriates. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2024, the unemployment rate among persons aged 15 years and above stood at 4.9%, indicating a slight improvement from the previous year. Despite this, competition remains intense, and understanding the nuances of the Indian job landscape is crucial for success.
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Job Hunt Starter Checklist
Before diving into applications, ensure you're prepared:
- Tailored to the Indian job market, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
- Regularly check platforms like Qureos, Naukri.com, Monster India, and Indeed India.
- Maintain a log of applications sent and follow-up dates.
- Practice common interview questions and scenarios.
- Enrol in relevant courses or certifications to boost your profile.
- Keep abreast of industry trends and news to tailor your applications effectively.
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How to Find Jobs in India in 2025
Tailor Your CV for the Indian Market
Your CV should be concise, ideally one to two pages, and tailored to the job you're applying for. Highlight relevant experience and skills, and avoid including unnecessary personal details. Employers in India appreciate clarity and relevance. Consider using Qureos' Iris AI Job Coach to enhance your CV and find suitable job matches. With over 10,000 jobs available, Iris can assist you in optimising your job search.
Don’t Apply Blindly, Reverse-Engineer the Job
Every job listing in India is a map. Don’t just click “Apply”, read 10 similar job descriptions and list out the most repeated requirements. Now ask: “Do I actually match this?” If not, fix the gap. Learn that software, write that project, or craft a 2-line pitch tailored to it. The more your profile mirrors the language of the JD, the more callbacks you’ll get.
Also Read: Top Applicant Tracking Systems in India
Start With Startups
Most freshers chase jobs at TCS, Infosys, and Deloitte, where thousands apply for one role. Instead, start with startups. They care more about mindset than pedigree, and you’ll get more hands-on experience in six months than you will in two years at a legacy company. Use sites like AngelList, Foundit, and even Twitter (yes, really) to find hiring founders.
Send a 30- Seconds Introduction Video
This works like magic in India. Most candidates send the same boring CV. But if you attach a 30-second Loom or Google Drive video saying “Hi, I’m [Name]. I just graduated in [Field] and I’m excited about this role because…”, you’ll instantly stand out. HRs are human. They’ll remember you.
Get a Referral Without Knowing Anyone
Here’s a hack: search “[Company Name] + hiring + your role” on LinkedIn. Find someone who currently works there in a related role. Send them a message:
“Hi [Name], I’m applying for the [Role] at [Company] and noticed you work there. If there’s any insight you can share or if you’re open to referring, I’d be grateful.”
Most won’t reply, but some will. And one referral > 100 applications.
Understand the Hiring Calendar
In India, hiring isn’t consistent year-round. October–December is the festive season, and most hiring slows down. But January–March is peak hiring. June–August is great for campus grads. Schedule your biggest efforts accordingly. Timing your job hunt gives you a better shot.
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Learn to Talk About Money Comfortably
Indians are taught to be humble, but humility isn’t silence. Practice saying:
“I understand the market for this role is between ₹X–₹Y. Based on my skills and location, I’d be comfortable around ₹Z.”
You’ll feel awkward the first time. Then you’ll get better. It’s a skill. Learn it.
Build One Portfolio Project That Solves a Real Problem
Whether you're in marketing, tech, design, or data, build one project that solves a real-life problem in your city, college, or family business. Document the process. Share it on LinkedIn. This speaks louder than certificates, and it’s a powerful answer when someone asks, “What have you worked on?”
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Navigating India's job market requires a proactive approach, adaptability, and resilience. By understanding the landscape, leveraging available resources, and continuously honing your skills, you can enhance your employability and find the right opportunity.
