8 in 10 Indians say skills are more important than degrees: Survey  

According to a recent survey from LinkedIn, 76 percent of professionals in India acknowledge that the significance of degrees as a prerequisite for jobs has decreased compared to two decades ago. This shift is attributed to the increasing emphasis on skills-based hiring. An impressive 82 percent of Indian professionals have also agreed that companies are now more inclined to hire individuals without relevant work experience but possessing the right skills.

Looking ahead, a substantial majority of Indian professionals (84 percent) anticipate that employers will prioritise professionals with diverse skill sets and experiences over those who specialise in a particular job function. The importance of upskilling has become paramount, with 87 percent of respondents stating that continuous learning of new skills holds greater significance now than it did 20 years ago.

The report also states that professionals are now more open to taking career breaks and pursuing non-linear career paths. As many as 85 per cent of Indian professionals agree that transferable skills have become more valued and acceptable, as more professionals pursue non-linear career paths. Over 84 per cent are more open to career pivots as compared to 20 years ago.