As workplaces undergo a rapid transformation with automation, GenAI, and evolving expectations, India’s Gen Zs and millennial workforce is reshaping career success.
The 2025 Deloitte Global Gen Z and Millennial Survey, which surveyed 809 Indian professionals—505 Gen Zs and 304 millennials—highlights their approach to learning, leadership, financial security, and career mobility.
The report underscores a shift toward hands-on experience, with a strong emphasis on on-the-job learning, mentorship, and AI-driven skill enhancement.
However, financial insecurity, lack of managerial guidance, and concerns over higher education affordability remain pressing challenges.
Upskilling and Practical Learning: A Priority for Zen Zs and Millennials
A significant 94% of Gen Zs and 97% of millennials believe that on-the-job learning is essential for career advancement, showing a preference for practical skills over formal education.
With 85% engaging in weekly upskilling activities, young professionals are focusing on time management, creativity, technical expertise, and soft skills to stay ahead in a fast-evolving job market.
Despite this, mentorship gaps remain a challenge—while 62% of Gen Zs and 56% of millennials seek guidance from managers, only 44% and 47%, respectively, feel they receive adequate support.
This highlights the need for structured learning programs led by experienced professionals.
The Growing Role of GenAI in Workplaces
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping professional landscapes, and Indian Gen Zs and millennials are early adopters of Generative AI (GenAI).
An impressive 85% of young professionals are already integrating GenAI into their workflows, leveraging it for design, creativity, content generation, and problem-solving.
Beyond enhancing efficiency, young professionals believe AI tools contribute to better work-life balance, allowing for streamlined processes and higher-quality output.
Higher Education Concerns among Zen Zs and Career Mobility
While higher education remains valued, financial constraints and family circumstances discourage 11% of Gen Zs and 9% of millennials from pursuing advanced degrees.
Additionally, 52% of Gen Zs and 45% of millennials express dissatisfaction with the quality of higher education, raising concerns about whether traditional degrees align with modern industry needs.
Many professionals are also shifting career paths.
About 11–12% of young workers have already moved away from their original fields, citing job availability (41% of Gen Zs) and work-life balance (millennials) as top motivators for career transitions.
Financial Pressures and Mental Health Challenges
Financial instability remains a significant concern for India’s Gen Z and millennial workforce.
More than 55% of Gen Zs and 62% of millennials report living paycheck-to-paycheck, with young professionals fearing unemployment and millennials worried about rising costs.
Mental health concerns are also growing.
Approximately 33% of Gen Zs and 29% of millennials report frequent stress, with 36% of Gen Zs and 39% of millennials attributing anxiety to workplace conditions.
While challenges remain, Indian employers appear to be more proactive in addressing mental health concerns than their global counterparts.
Climate Consciousness and Sustainable Action by Zen Zs
Beyond career concerns, India’s young professionals are deeply engaged in environmental sustainability.
- 84% of Gen Zs and 83% of millennials report climate anxiety in the past month.
- Over 50% have already purchased an electric vehicle or plan to do so.
- 40% are investing in eco-friendly home upgrades to promote sustainability.
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