A large majority of professionals in India are feeling unprepared to search for a new job in 2026, even as most are actively looking for one, according to new research released by LinkedIn. The study found that 84 per cent of Indian professionals feel unready for the job market, while 72 per cent say they are planning to change roles this year.
The report highlights growing anxiety caused by intense competition, fast-changing skill demands and the increasing use of artificial intelligence in hiring. Around 76 per cent of job seekers said finding a new role has become tougher in the past year. Many applicants also feel confused by long and impersonal hiring processes, with several stages and limited feedback from recruiters. Nearly half said they are unsure how to make their applications stand out in an AI-driven system.
Despite these concerns, AI is becoming a key support tool for job seekers. The study shows that 94 per cent of Indian professionals plan to use AI in their job search, and many believe it helps boost interview confidence. LinkedIn data also shows that applications per job role in India have more than doubled since early 2022, while recruiters report difficulty in finding skilled candidates. In Kolkata, the trends reflect a steady shift towards technology-led roles and advisory functions, alongside demand in sales, brand strategy and emerging green sectors. Hiring experts say professionals in the city are increasingly reskilling to stay relevant, with growing interest in AI-related roles, cyber security and business development, even as competition for quality jobs continues to rise.