Having an internationally accredited business degree helps set one apart in the domestic market, providing a unique edge in recruitment and career progression. Many Indian students seek to take their learnings from this world-class institution of ours at the University of Edinburgh Business School and leverage them to differentiate themselves in the flourishing and growing Indian market. The event provided an invaluable opportunity for students to gain insights into the job search process, industry trends, and strategies to secure meaningful employment in India.
With speakers including Ria R Deshpande (People Development Assistant - L&D at Ergomed Group), Smriti Viswesvaran (Consultant at Xynteo), and Janmejoy Mukherjee (Regional Commercial Lead, Climate Projects at South Pole), the discussion covered everything from the differences between the UK and Indian job markets to practical tips for networking, applications, and interview success.
Reflecting on this session, I found myself resonating deeply with many insights shared by the panellists. With four years of experience under my belt in the Indian market—across corporations, ad agencies, and start-ups—I have encountered firsthand the challenges and opportunities they discussed.
One of the biggest takeaways from the panel was how different the hiring processes are in the UK and India. Unlike the structured graduate recruitment programmes common in the UK, the Indian job market places a significant emphasis on networking and direct outreach. The panellists highlighted LinkedIn and Naukri.com as crucial platforms for job searching, with many roles secured through direct engagement with hiring managers.
A well-crafted CV and cover letter remain vital, but panellists emphasised the need to tailor applications for each role using industry-relevant keywords to pass automated Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). A strong LinkedIn presence also helps—directly messaging hiring managers with personalised, specific inquiries can significantly improve response rates.
Additionally, panellists noted the importance of leveraging university projects and dissertations to stand out. A client-sourced dissertation or consultancy project can showcase practical experience and industry knowledge, positioning candidates as valuable hires. For those without extensive work experience, aligning their dissertation with industry trends can serve as a strong differentiator.
Interviews in India often focus heavily on case studies, especially for consulting roles. Unlike in the UK, where behavioural interviews are more common, Indian employers frequently assess problem-solving abilities through case-based questions. Panellists advised preparing by researching a company’s past projects and practising real-world business challenges.
Additionally, the ‘Tell me about yourself’ question is an opportunity to highlight relevant education, skills, and experiences rather than personal details. Panellists stressed the importance of structuring responses around how candidates fit the job description and can add value to the organisation.
For graduates considering a return to India, salary expectations and career growth play a major role in decision-making. While larger corporations may not offer the best starting salaries, panellists recommended considering mid-sized firms and start-ups, where career growth can be more rapid.
Panellists also noted that although international degrees may not immediately result in significantly higher pay, they often lead to faster promotions and leadership opportunities due to the advanced skill set and global exposure that students bring to the workplace.
Beyond structured job search strategies, the discussion also touched on some important nuances of working in India that prospective job seekers should consider:
- Foreign nationals seeking opportunities in India: While India is an emerging global business hub, securing a corporate job as a foreign national can be challenging. Many opportunities for expats lie in policy advocacy, NGOs, multinational firms, and embassy-related roles, particularly in cities like Delhi.
- Common misconceptions and expectations: Many graduates assume that an international degree automatically leads to a high-paying job in India. However, while it does provide an advantage, salaries often start at a level comparable to Indian graduates. The differentiator comes in faster career acceleration, leadership opportunities, and an ability to navigate global work environments.
- Salary expectations and market realities: Larger corporations may offer stability but not always the highest starting salaries. Mid-sized firms and start-ups often provide greater autonomy, faster promotions, and opportunities to make a larger impact in a shorter time.
The event concluded with a discussion on best practices and strategies, reinforcing the importance of a proactive job search approach. The panel concluded with a strong endorsement of the University of Edinburgh’s Student Development Team and Career Services, which offer invaluable support in refining CVs, preparing for interviews, and connecting with industry professionals. Students were encouraged to start networking early, leverage Business School resources, and actively seek out opportunities that align with their career goals.
For those interested in learning more or seeking personalised advice, the panellists welcomed follow-ups via LinkedIn, emphasising that proactive engagement and persistence are key to landing the right role in India. Whether you’re considering job opportunities in India now or in the future, the insights from this session provide a roadmap to successfully navigate and thrive in the Indian job market.