According to PwC’s “India Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey 2023,” 51% of Indians believe that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will enhance their productivity at work. This surpasses the global average of 31%, indicating a more optimistic outlook among Indian respondents. The survey, released on Monday, also underlines that 62% of Indians anticipate significant changes in the skills required for their jobs over the next five years, compared to the global average of 36%. Notably, 69% of these respondents are aware of how these requirements will evolve.
Kartik Rishi, Partner at PwC India, emphasized the awareness among Indian leaders about the necessity to transform their workforce for future success. However, Rishi highlighted a gap, stating, “Organisations continue to adopt a much lesser focus on skills, especially those for the future, in their talent strategies and programs.” He advocates for a forward-looking, skills-first approach integrated into business processes for sustained success over the next decade.
The survey also revealed that 24% of Indians believe AI will have a negative impact on their work, while globally, this figure is 14%. Additionally, 21% of Indian respondents think AI could replace their jobs, compared to 13% globally.
The report underscores a restlessness within the Indian workforce, with 42% expressing a likelihood of changing jobs in the next year, driven by expectations of better pay packages and promotions, in contrast to the global figure of 2%. Furthermore, 70% of Indian participants, compared to 35% globally, are willing to ask for a promotion.
Anumeha Singh, Partner at PwC India, highlights the evolving needs of the workforce, stating, “The workforce is not settling with competitive compensation only – which continues to be a hygiene – but also desires deeper job satisfaction and faster growth opportunities.” Singh emphasizes the importance for organizations and leaders to make strategic choices in adapting to an ever-evolving work landscape, catering not only to younger generations but also to managers and senior executives.
