The 2023 Workplace Learning Report tells us that “progress toward career goals" is employees’ top reason to learn on the job. “Staying up-to-date in their fields” is number two. All this leads to a sustainable career and is a win-win for employers and employees.

Does your prospective employer take the long view of career growth? Strong L&D programs help people think about transferable and sustainable skills, and open new directions for them to grow. “I’m proud to work at HCLTech. I joined because they offer excellent growth and learning opportunities… I’ve learned how to code correctly and work as part of a teamand that will benefit me for the rest of my career,” said Marlon, a young HCLTech hire.

L&D valued as strategic by many Indian tech companies

Recognized for promoting innovation through IT-enabled services, India has prioritized technology skill development (TSD) as a pillar of economic strategy. For decades, the Indian IT industry has fueled the national economy, both with a global network of delivery centers and as a prime offshoring destination for IT companies globally.

One of the fastest-growing economies, India is expected to become the world’s third-largest by 2030, but this is nearly impossible unless L&D expands along with growth. India tech leaders are acutely aware of the need for tech skill development to maintain this strong position. Progress demands a highly skilled workforce.

Some researchers expect India's L&D market to hit $100B by 2030. The substantial growth in market size and workforce underscores the industry's commitment to staying competitive globally, and closing skills gaps is pivotal. India’s fast-growing IT industry requires constant upskilling and reskilling of employees to stay ahead of the curve.

Look for employers that supercharge your progress

You can probably assume that a globally admired employer does not skimp on L&D. Standout organizations recognize the value of talent and empower their people with new capabilities. L&D has proven to be a smart business. 76% of businesses say a lack of digital skills would affect their profitability. Leaders who tap into L&D see their investments paid back many times over in business success and growth.

A learning-focused, growth-centric culture will supercharge your progress and cheer you on with acknowledgment and advice as you explore your career path. Motivated, skilled, committed employees are highly valued in these organizations. Ask interviewers how they encourage and validate achievements in L&D.

As you examine what potential employers have to offer, see if you can get a sense of their long-term vision for employee learning. Technology changes quickly — what used to be a 10-15-year runway to a new technology skill is now just a few years, making it critical for college graduates to continue learning new skills and emerging technologies.

Do your research into employer L&D programs

As a new graduate entering the technology job market, you’re in an excellent spot and in high demand. Don’t do yourself a disservice by failing to do your research on the L&D practices at prospective employers. Most strategic companies prefer motivated, excited employees and will do what it takes to keep them that way.

Look at how the organization talks about its programs. Does it put L&D front and center in the career section? Look into any awards and recognition around those practices. For example, HCLTech has been recognized by the Top Employers Institute in 17 countries. The company also ranked in the top 10 on a LinkedIn list of Top Companies in India. Employee skills growth ranked second among the seven pillars LinkedIn used to evaluate those high-performing workplaces. Recognition like this signals a culture steeped in fostering employee growth while driving value for clients.

Look for leadership development and mentorships

Don’t just look at your own new hire or entry-level role for L&D verification. Look up. Development-focused companies have programs to scale leaders in new domains and territories. The focus is on next-gen capabilities and talents and providing learning opportunities at all levels.

Trust that if the needs of leaders are being met, attention to L&D will run from top to bottom. “I’ve had great leaders at HCLTech who helped shape my career. My experience motivated me to pay it forward and help others grow,” declared Juan Manuel, a young manager at HCLTech Mexico. “HCLTech is committed to helping our people become the best version of themselves. I’m proud to be working at a company that is so inspiring and empowering.”

New hires and recent graduates don’t usually have a fully developed sense of career yet. It’s natural at this stage that you don’t know how to define your next step or lack access to established support networks. That’s when to look to leaders and mentors.

L&D outside of formal training

Another L&D area to explore during interviews and research has to do with training formats. Good L&D programs use a variety of approaches because everyone has a unique learning style. Plus some skills are best taught in person, while others may be fine online.

Not all training happens in a formal class setting. Many of your best skills will be acquired on the job. Current thinking in L&D goes beyond the view of just course curriculum and instructional design. Today’s technology workers demand more than that.

“I’ve learned a lot since joining HCLTech, and I look forward to being in an organization where I can continue to grow. I’m lucky to be part of a great team with a wonderful leader and to have the chance to develop personally and professionally every day,” declared Adelina-Elena, HCLTech Romania.

Scout out companies that encourage good leaders to work as mentors. You can refer to company review boards for research. Ask hiring managers for examples.

A few companies even start their L&D efforts before students become actual employees. Some IT organizations have initiated memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Indian universities to set up tech labs and innovation hubs to spot and coach talent early.

Include your passion in your L&D requirements

Don’t be hesitant about including your passion as a factor in choosing a first employer. It’s not a job if you love what you’re doing, so they say. Here at HCLTech, we call it “finding your spark.”

“I joined HCLTech to further my career doing something I love,” declared Yasmine, HCLTech USA. “At HCLTech you can pursue your career in anything the company offers. I’ve improved immensely in both my personal and professional skills. My time management has skyrocketed, and I’m much more confident when speaking in a professional setting.”

We want employees to pursue their passions, because that’s what drives us all to be better and, ultimately, more fulfilled. Isn’t that what a career is all about? At HCLTech, you’ll find your career and your spark.