A growing number of Indian professionals are optimistic about their job security, with 73% expressing confidence in retaining their positions in FY26, an 11-percentage point increase from the previous year, according to a new report from Great Learning, a global edtech company.
The report highlights stark contrasts in job retention confidence between professionals based in tier 1 and tier 2 cities. While 31% of employees in metro areas say they are “extremely confident” about their job security, only 18% of workers in smaller cities share the same sentiment. Additionally, job stability appears to be more secure in larger corporations, where 85% of professionals employed in companies with over 5,000 workers expressed confidence. In contrast, only 58% of those working in firms with fewer than 50 employees felt the same way.
Artificial intelligence and automation are influencing job market dynamics, but many professionals view these technologies as opportunities rather than threats. 78% of employees surveyed reported a positive outlook on AI’s impact on their careers. The report notes that MBA and B.Com graduates are among the most optimistic about AI-driven changes, with 89% and 84%, respectively, embracing the shift. Meanwhile, engineers from B.E/B.Tech backgrounds exhibit slightly more skepticism, likely due to hiring reductions in India’s IT sector, where major firms have decreased recruitment amid increased AI adoption.
The report also underscores the growing importance of upskilling in the evolving job market. In FY26, 85% of professionals recognize that acquiring new skills is essential for career longevity, up from 79% last year. Interest in learning technical skills remains high, with 81% of workers planning to invest in professional development. Employees in tier 1 cities show a stronger commitment to upskilling, with 46% rating it as ‘extremely important’, compared to 26% in tier 2 cities.
“AI is a transformative force reshaping the modern workplace. While it presents challenges, it also opens doors for those who are ready and willing to learn and evolve,” said Hari Krishnan Nair, Co-Founder of Great Learning, underscoring the need for professionals to adapt to changing job demands.
The findings highlight India’s evolving workforce, where confidence in job security is rising alongside the adoption of AI and automation. As industries continue to shift, professionals are focusing on skill development to stay ahead, ensuring long-term employability in an increasingly tech-driven economy.
