Covid prompting professionals to rethink career paths: Amazon

The pandemic is prompting professionals in the country to rethink their career paths with many looking at switching industries as well as upskilling themselves to advance in their careers, according to a survey commissioned by Amazon India.

The e-commerce major commissioned a survey to gauge the pulse of the impact of COVID-19 on jobs and future career plans among Indian professionals. The survey was conducted by Morning Consult in August and covered 1,000 professionals across India.

About 59% of the respondents said they were actively searching for a job. More than one in three (35%) respondents said they saw their pay cut as a result of Covid, while 68% said they are looking to switch industries due to Covid.

One in three (33%) respondents said they are looking for a new job right now where "they can do more meaningful work".

The survey found 51% of the Indian job-seeking adults were interested in pursuing opportunities in industries they do not have experience in. About 55% said compensation is a major factor they look for when applying for a job.

Job security is also a major priority for 56% of Indian professionals following the pandemic.

"For half of Indian professionals (49%), opportunities that will help them learn and develop is a high priority when considering a job.

For 47% of Indian professionals, having a safe workplace environment is a high priority when considering a job," the survey said.

Interestingly, 75% of respondents said they are concerned their current set of skills will become outdated in five years.

About 90% said they are interested in learning new and transferable career skills, and 74% said this interest was a result of the pandemic.

"The study underlines the changing concerns, aspirations and interests of Indian job seekers, particularly brought in by the COVID19 pandemic. Professionals are looking at broadening the industries and skillsets to stay relevant in the changing job market," Amazon India said.

In terms of skill sets, 45% said they believe technical and digital skills are essential for career advancement; and around 38% believe marketing skills are important for career advancement.