73% of recruiters now prioritise talent over premier college tags, says report

A significant shift in hiring practices has emerged, with more employers focusing on talent rather than academic background. According to a recent survey, 73% of recruiters now prioritise skill-based hiring over relying on candidates' college affiliations. This shift is part of a broader change in recruitment dynamics, as employers recognise the importance of real-world abilities over academic credentials.
These findings are part of the Unstop Talent Report 2025, released at the Unstop Talent Meet in Bangalore. The report, based on a survey of over 30,000 GenZ professionals and 700 HR leaders, offers a detailed analysis of the evolving expectations of young professionals and the changing dynamics in recruitment.
E-school and B-school graduates still face employment challenges
The report reveals a concerning statistic: 83% of E-school graduates and 46% of B-school graduates are still without a job or internship offer. Despite coming from prestigious institutions, these graduates are struggling to secure employment, suggesting a gap between the education system and the skills required by the job market.

GenZ’s evolving workplace expectations
The report also sheds light on the changing expectations of GenZ professionals, particularly in their work environment. An overwhelming 77% of GenZ professionals expressed a preference for monthly or project-based performance reviews instead of traditional annual assessments. This demand reflects a desire for more frequent feedback and a greater sense of involvement in their professional development.
Additionally, 51% of GenZ professionals are seeking multiple income streams, with freelancing and side hustles gaining significant popularity. Among B-school students, the number rises to 59%, reflecting the growing importance of financial independence and flexibility in the modern workforce.
Gender pay gap in Arts & Science graduates
The report also highlights a significant gender pay gap, particularly among Arts & Science graduates. Two in three female graduates from these disciplines earn below Rs 6 LPA, while their male counterparts largely surpass this threshold. However, this gap is not seen in E-schools and B-schools, where pay parity appears to be better, regardless of gender.
Employer preferences and emerging industries
While tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon remain the top employers for E-school and B-school graduates, there is a notable shift towards next-gen companies. Companies such as Zomato and Meesho are becoming increasingly popular among GenZ professionals, as skill-based hiring gains prominence over traditional degree-based filters. In fact, 25% of job offers now come from emerging sectors like e-commerce, startups, and product companies, signalling the growing influence of these industries.
Key findings from the report
The Unstop Talent Report 2025 reveals several important insights into the current job market:

Looking ahead: A skills-first approach
The report paints a clear picture of the future of recruitment. As employers increasingly embrace a skills-first approach, we are likely to see more inclusive hiring practices that focus on what candidates can do rather than where they come from. This shift not only reflects the changing values of GenZ professionals but also represents a strategic move for companies looking to stay competitive in a fast-evolving job market.
As the report indicates, organisations that adapt to these trends—by emphasising skills, offering frequent feedback, and embracing emerging industries—will have a competitive edge in attracting and retaining top talent.