Redefining Talent in the Digital Age: Addressing the Paper Ceiling in Information Technology Hiring

Abstract

In this article we investigate hiring in the Indian IT industry and compare degree based and skills-based hiring. It looks at how credentialism affects the job prospects of non-traditionally educated workers (like online certified or bootcamp grads). Applying a mixed-methods methodology–questionnaires and interviews–the research examines perceptions of bias, career obstacles, and recruitment inclusivity. The preference of hiring candidates with degrees, and the limited prospects for nondegree holders, is strong, as is the belief that skills-based hiring can be a DEI tool. Several trends of consistent patterns responding to the concerns and benefits are also observed by the correlation analysis. It is recommended that while skills-based hire has potential to promote inclusion and merit in hiring, its application has become uneven and therefore would require stronger policy or organizational support.