Indian professionals see AI as a skill that could lead to higher pay, promotions: Survey

Many in India are preparing for the next wave of workplace change by embracing AI as a means to stay employable, grow in their careers and secure future opportunities, according to a new report.

The Work Ahead report, Indeed’s latest workforce study, finds that 43% feel confident about the technologies they expect to use in the next two to five years, such as generative AI and agentic AI. Many see AI not just as a productivity tool, but as a skill that could open doors to higher pay, promotions, and new career paths.

The report surveyed more than 3,000 professionals across India, including both white and blue-collar workers.

Confidence is highest among mid-career professionals aged 35 to 54, nearly half of whom (49%) report being ready to navigate AI-integrated workplaces, outpacing their younger peers aged 18 to 24. Importantly, 56% of mid-career professionals say they want significantly more training to stay future-ready, compared to just 41% of their younger counterparts. Their top motivations include advancing their careers, staying updated with evolving technology, and becoming more efficient at work. Notably, nearly one-third of workers express concern about job security if they don’t keep up with technological change.

“There’s a determined confidence building across India’s workforce,” said Sashi Kumar, head of sales, Indeed India. “Mid-career professionals, in particular, are not only using AI but actively seeking upskilling opportunities to master it. The rise in interest around agentic AI signals that we are at the beginning of a transformation, one where job seekers are not just responding to change, but leading it.”

The survey reveals that AI has moved well beyond the hype cycle and into daily workplace reality. Among those surveyed, 34% expect to use generative AI tools frequently in the near future. A quarter of respondents are already anticipating the adoption of agentic AI tools--AI systems that can autonomously complete complex tasks. These tools are increasingly seen as essential alongside traditional workplace technologies like email and cloud storage, reshaping job descriptions and the skills employers value most.

Even in traditionally hands-on roles, AI is making inroads. Among blue-collar workers surveyed, 70% say technology helps them at work, and two in 10 are already using generative AI in their roles, from streamlining paperwork to improving customer service.

Overall, Indian professionals know what they need to succeed in this AI-powered future. Many are asking for dedicated time during the workday to learn and adapt. 29% are looking for access to self-paced online training programmes to upgrade their skills on their own terms. While the appetite for learning is high, workers also want employers to create space, structure, and support to make that learning effective.

“As we move ahead, upskilling in AI wouldn’t just be good practice; it’ll be the career accelerator. Workers who build AI skills will be better positioned for higher pay, promotions, and future roles, a trend that we already see picking up,” Kumar said.