Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Professionals Demand 21%+ Salary Hike for Job Switches
A survey by foundit in June 2026 found that most professionals in India want a big pay raise if they switch jobs.
About 70% want at least a 21% increase, and many are unhappy with small raises from their current employers.
Almost everyone is thinking about changing jobs, with half actively looking.
The survey shows that people want better pay and more chances to grow in their careers.
Many are also frustrated because their appraisals are delayed or too small.
Employers need to give bigger raises and promote people on time to keep them happy.
70% of professionals expect a salary increase of 21% or more from a new employer.
Better pay and career growth are the top reasons for job switching.
28% of professionals had not received their appraisal as of June 2026.
96% of respondents are open to switching jobs, with 52% actively looking.
Employers face challenges in retaining employees and managing salary expectations.
- Who
- Professionals across sectors and locations in India
- What
- Survey on salary expectations and job switching intentions
- When
- June 2026
- Where
- India
- Why
- To understand job mobility trends and salary expectations
Employees' Expectations
Employers' Challenges
Salary Increase Expectations
Employees' Expectations
70% of professionals expect a salary increase of 21% or more from a new employer, with 27% seeking a 21–30% jump.
Employers' Challenges
Employers face the challenge of retaining employees through annual increments and managing expectations around the premium candidates seek when they move.
Job Switching Drivers
Employees' Expectations
Better pay and stronger career growth are nearly equal drivers of job switching, with compensation-related factors accounting for nearly 40% of respondents.
Employers' Challenges
Employers need to address both compensation and career progression to retain talent.
Appraisal Delays
Employees' Expectations
Delayed appraisals and increments of less than 10% are fueling job searches, with 96% of respondents open to switching jobs.
Employers' Challenges
Employers must close appraisals on schedule to prevent employees from comparing their current compensation with what they could command elsewhere.
- Survey Respondents
- 2,500 professionals across sectors and locations in India
- Expected Salary Increase
- 70% expect 21% or more, 27% seek 21–30%
- Job Switching Reasons
- Better pay (23%), shortfall in increment (17%), lack of promotion (20%), learning opportunities (16%)
- Appraisal Status
- 28% not received appraisal, 52% received less than 10% increment
- Job Switching Intentions
- 96% open to switching, 52% actively looking, 4% plan to stay