Why Job Descriptions in India Lack Transparency Compared to the West

In the global job market, transparency in job descriptions especially regarding salary and benefits is increasingly becoming the norm. However, a noticeable disparity exists between multinational corporations (MNCs) operating in India and their counterparts abroad. This blog delves into the reasons behind this difference and its impact on job seekers and employers in India.

The Global Shift Towards Transparency

In countries like the United States, legislative measures have propelled companies to disclose salary ranges in job postings. For instance, states such as California, New York, and Colorado have enacted laws mandating salary transparency, leading to a significant increase in job ads with disclosed pay ranges. This transparency not only fosters trust but also aids in reducing wage gaps and attracting a broader pool of qualified candidates.

India's Gradual Progress

Contrastingly, India lacks specific legislation mandating salary disclosures in job postings. While there has been progress with 46% of job postings on platforms like Indeed now including salary information, this practice is not yet widespread. The absence of legal requirements means many companies opt to withhold salary details, often citing reasons such as maintaining negotiation flexibility or adhering to traditional practices.

Implications for Job Seekers

This lack of transparency can lead to inefficiencies in the hiring process. Candidates may invest time in applications and interviews only to discover that the compensation does not meet their expectations. Moreover, the absence of clear salary information can perpetuate wage disparities and hinder informed decision-making for job seekers.

While global trends are moving towards greater transparency in job postings, India remains on the cusp of this transformation. For MNCs operating in India, aligning with international transparency standards can be a strategic move to attract and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive market.