Microsoft “most attractive” employer in India: survey

Global software major Microsoft has emerged as the 'most attractive employer' in India, a survey conducted by HR services firm Randstad showed. The survey also showed that IT, telecom and ITes were the most preferred sectors among job seekers.

The software giant bagged the top spot for the fourth year in a row.

Sony India took the No 2 position in the category.

The survey revealed Larsen & Toubro was the most attractive employer in the infrastructure industry, State Bank of India in the banking sector, Taj Group in hospitality while Tata Power was the most attractive energy sector employer.

The survey, which polled over 8,000 potential and employed workforce in India, found that competitive salary and employee benefits and long-term job security were the most important factors for employees.

The financial health of the company, good work-life balance, pleasant working atmosphere and career progression opportunities were other factors that influenced the workforce preferences.

According to the survey, men preferred companies that offered competitive salaries and job security, while women considered better work atmosphere, accessibility and flexible working conditions.

While the 35 plus workforce sought financially healthy companies for employment those below 35 preferred companies that offered training and global career opportunities.

The survey polled workforce in 150 companies with over 1,000 employees each. The results were based on what the respondents looked for in choosing an employer in terms of salaries, job security, work-life balance, career progression and other such factors.

According to Randstad, ''Indian responses were in sync with global traits where salary and employee benefit was the top priority followed by job security.''

The survey found that respondents with master's degree were more inclined to work with companies offering competitive salary, while respondents with lower education sought companies that offered training, job content and accessibility.

In terms of employer personality traits, men preferred secure employers, while women preferred highly regarded employers.

Overall, ''honesty, reliability, security, and intelligence are the key characteristics, potential employees look for in an employer,'' the survey said.

As regards work-life balance, Indian employees saw it threatened largely by unfavourable work environment, too many deadlines and poor cooperation.