‘Lost after coming home’: Viral Reddit post exposes harsh reality of returning to India’s job market

A 25-year-old Indian woman’s Reddit post is gaining widespread attention for shedding light on the struggles young professionals encounter when shifting back to India after studying and building careers overseas.

The woman, who recently returned from London after finishing her degree at a leading UK university and working for two years, shared that she feels “lost” while trying to navigate India’s competitive job market.

Struggling to Re-Enter India’s Job Market

In her post, she explained that she moved back home after her graduate visa ran out and her previous workplace environment became toxic. She had expected the transition to be relatively smooth, but instead found herself overwhelmed by the intense competition in India.

She expressed frustration over job applications going unanswered on platforms like LinkedIn, explaining that “applications often disappear without a response.”

Seeking Advice on Job Search Strategies

The user also sought clarity on job-hunting norms in India, asking whether “contacting hiring managers directly is considered acceptable in India,” and if so, how best to approach them.

Additionally, she requested suggestions on niche job portals or industry-specific communities where actual recruitment efforts take place, as opposed to generic application platforms.

Does International Experience Matter in India?

Another key concern she raised was whether companies in India recognize global exposure or disregard it altogether. She questioned if Indian employers “genuinely value international experience or treat it as irrelevant.”

Resonating With Many Returning Indians

Her post struck a chord with several users who have also lived abroad and returned to India. Many related to the confusion, emotional challenges, and uncertainty involved in rebuilding professional identity within a fast-changing and highly competitive market.