HCLTech, India’s third-largest IT services company, has revised its fresher hiring target for FY25 to 7,000 from the earlier planned 10,000. The decision reflects improved productivity and stable attrition rates of 12–13 percent, steady over the last few quarters.
Productivity Drives Hiring Changes
The initial 10,000 fresher hiring plan was adjusted as part of quarterly reviews. HCLTech onboarded 6,000 freshers in FY25, with 4,000 in the first half and 2,134 in Q3. The company expects to hire another 1,000 freshers in Q4. Chief People Officer Ramachandran Sundararajan attributed the changes to productivity gains through Project Ascend, which enhanced operational efficiencies.
Role of Generative AI Tools
HCLTech introduced Generative AI-based solutions, Talent Navigator and Mentor Bot, to boost internal and external talent management. These tools streamline hiring processes, provide personalized guidance, and help improve daily work efficiencies. CEO C Vijayakumar emphasized their contribution to achieving a 100-basis-point improvement in margins.
Focus on Specialized Fresher Roles
HCLTech’s hiring strategy now prioritizes specialization, moving away from volume-based recruitment. Sundararajan hinted that FY26 fresher hiring could exceed FY25 levels, with plans finalized by the fiscal’s end. This shift aligns with broader market trends among IT majors like TCS and Infosys, focusing on niche skill sets.
Financial Performance and Future Outlook
HCLTech reported a 5.5 percent year-on-year rise in net profit, amounting to Rs 4,591 crore for Q3FY25. The company announced an interim dividend of Rs 18 per equity share, celebrating 25 years of public listing. Looking ahead, HCLTech’s commitment to innovation and talent specialization sets the stage for sustained growth.
