Indian executives are embracing the potential of generative artificial intelligence, which has transformed from a trendy term to a business necessity two years after it was first introduced to the world. According to new research by LinkedIn, 98% of business leaders in India say helping their organisations speed up AI adoption is their strategic priority in 2025. However, finding talent with the right skills remains a challenge.
The Great Barrier: Finding The Right Mix Of AI And Human Skills
Around 54% of HR professionals in India report that only half, or fewer, of the job applications they receive meet all required and preferred qualifications. Finding candidates with the right technical (61%) and soft skills (57%) remains their biggest hiring challenge. The hardest-to-find skills in India include technical/IT skills such as software development, engineering (44%), AI skills (34%) and soft skills like communication and problem-solving (33%).
HRs Doing ‘Selective Hiring' In 2025
HR professionals in India also state they receive too many applications (47%) from candidates who are not a fit for the role (41%) and are hiring more selectively in 2025. More than half of HR professionals in India say they would only consider reaching out to (55%) and hiring (54%) candidates who meet 80% or more of job qualifications.
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Leaders Doubling Down On Upskilling
More than eight in 10 (84%) HR professionals in India rank helping employees build new skills as a top priority for 2025, with a strong focus on upskilling in AI (84%) and essential soft skills like communication and collaboration (82%). All (100%) of the L&D professionals surveyed also concur that soft skills—such as creativity, curiosity, and communication—are becoming as important to technical expertise. Nearly half (48%) of Indian execs also said that investing in learning and development for AI training will be key to accelerating adoption.
LinkedIn's New AI-Powered Tools
As companies navigate a cautious economic landscape, LinkedIn is introducing new AI-powered tools to help recruiters focus on the most strategic tasks of their job. Around 37% of HR professionals in India spend 1–3 hours daily sifting through job applications, and 64% believe AI-powered tools can make hiring faster and easier. LinkedIn's new Hiring Assistant takes on repetitive, time-consuming tasks so recruiters can spend more time on advising hiring managers, connecting with candidates, and creating exceptional candidate experiences.
Over seven in 10 (71%) HR professionals in India also cited difficulties accessing tailored learning resources. LinkedIn Learning's new AI-powered coaching feature helps learners build soft skills through interactive, real-world scenarios using text or voice. It helps them gain confidence during performance reviews and feedback discussions, and learners receive actionable, personalised feedback at the end of each practice session.
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