Chennai startup fails to hire any intern despite 1,290 applications

A startup based in Chennai, India, has struggled to fill a single internship position despite receiving 1,290 applications. Ramesh Ravishankar, the company's co-founder and director, shared the recruitment challenges on LinkedIn.

The selection process saw a significant drop-off at each stage: out of the initial 1,290 applicants, only 83 completed assessments, 23 passed, and 10 were invited for interviews. As of late July, no candidate had successfully passed the final interview stage.

Ravishankar noted several issues, including candidates failing to attend scheduled interviews or declining opportunities due to location. He observed that some young applicants appear to prioritize job titles and personal branding over practical skill development, suggesting a trend where leadership mindset is emphasized before foundational professional competence is established.