ManpowerGroup Q3 2025 report shows Indian employers remain confident, with automation, digital skills, and workforce transformation shaping the future of hiring.
As global hiring patterns shift and economies recalibrate, India’s job market continues to show resilience. According to the latest ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey for Q3 2025, India reported a Net Employment Outlook (NEO) of 42%, maintaining its position as one of the most optimistic labor markets globally.
While this marks a 1-point decline from Q2 2025, it still reflects a 12-point increase compared to Q3 last year, highlighting sustained employer confidence despite global trade uncertainties and workforce disruptions.
Sector and Regional Leaders
The survey—based on responses from 3,146 employers—found 54% of companies planning to increase hiring, 32% maintaining current levels, and only 12% anticipating reductions.
- Energy & Utilities emerged as the top-performing sector, posting a record-breaking NEO of 50%, an 18-point surge over last quarter.
- The North region leads geographically, with a 46% NEO, followed by East (44%), West (41%), and South (36%).
- Large enterprises (1,000–4,999 employees) showed the highest optimism, with a 52% NEO, despite a 6-point dip from Q2.
Workforce Transformation in Action
Indian companies are not just hiring—they’re rethinking how they hire. According to Sandeep Gulati, Managing Director of ManpowerGroup India and Middle East:
“The shift is clear—from volume hiring to agile, digitally skilled teams. Sectors like IT, Energy & Utilities, and Financial Services are leading the charge in digital transformation.”
Key trends shaping this transformation include:
- 82% of employers are investing in automation, particularly in sectors disrupted by trade uncertainty and workforce aging.
- 67% of companies are adapting HR strategies to address an aging workforce, especially in IT and Energy, where over 70% report significant impact.
- 90% of employers say global trade uncertainty is influencing their hiring decisions.
India’s Global Edge
Despite global headwinds, India remains firmly on the path to becoming a talent powerhouse. With growing automation, AI integration, and a renewed focus on workforce skilling, employers who prioritize adaptability and inclusive strategies are expected to thrive in the long run.
As Gulati notes, “India is well-positioned to lead in the region. Resilience, innovation, and people-first thinking will define the next phase of growth.”