Shark Tank India judge and Shaadi.com founder Anupam Mittal has set social media ablaze with his pointed question about one of corporate India's most entrenched practices - the expectation of a 35% salary hike when switching jobs.
The Viral Post That Started It All
Taking to LinkedIn, the prominent entrepreneur didn't mince words when he questioned the origin of this widespread benchmark. "Who decided that a 35% hike is standard when changing jobs? This arbitrary number has become gospel in the Indian job market," Mittal stated, sparking an intense discussion among professionals across sectors.
Market Dynamics vs Artificial Standards
The core of Mittal's argument challenges whether this percentage reflects genuine market dynamics or has become an artificially imposed standard. "Does this number truly represent value creation and market forces, or has it become an entitlement?" the Shark Tank judge questioned.
Industry Professionals Weigh In
The post immediately went viral, attracting thousands of reactions and comments from HR professionals, recruiters, and employees. The debate revealed divided opinions:
- Some argued that 35% compensates for the risk and uncertainty of moving organizations
- Others maintained that salary increases should reflect actual skills and contribution
- Many highlighted that the percentage varies significantly across industries and experience levels
The Bigger Picture: Compensation Philosophy
Mittal's critique touches on deeper issues within India's compensation structures and hiring practices. The discussion has expanded to examine whether fixed percentage expectations distort genuine talent valuation and create unrealistic compensation bubbles in certain sectors.
What This Means for Indian Professionals
As the conversation continues to gain momentum, it's clear that Mittal has tapped into a fundamental concern about how India values professional talent and whether current practices serve both employees and employers effectively.
The debate remains ongoing, with no clear consensus emerging, but one thing is certain - Anupam Mittal has successfully challenged one of corporate India's most unquestioned norms.
