For many young adults in the UK, the path to landing their dream job seems to be filled with hurdles and challenges.
Whether you’re fresh out of school or university, the journey to secure employment in today’s job market is more daunting than ever.
In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why recruitment is so challenging for 18-25 year olds in the UK.
The Impact of the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted the job market. Lockdowns, social distancing measures, and economic downturns have affected various industries, causing redundancies and recruitment freezes. Many businesses are still recovering, which can lead to a slow and uncertain hiring process.
Increased Competition
The pool of job seekers is larger than ever, with more young adults competing for the same positions. The pandemic forced many older individuals out of the workforce, creating a surplus of experienced candidates who are now vying for entry-level and junior roles.
Digital Skills Gap
In an increasingly digital world, employers are seeking candidates with strong digital skills. The younger generation may be tech-savvy in their personal lives, but not all possess the specific skills that employers demand. Bridging this digital skills gap can be challenging for 18-25 year olds.
Remote Work Expectations
The pandemic has normalized remote work, leading to a shift in expectations. Many employers now offer remote positions, making geography less of a barrier. However, this also means young job seekers are competing with candidates from all over the country, and sometimes even the world.
Experience Paradox
Many entry-level positions require prior experience, creating a catch-22 for recent graduates. How can one gain experience if no one is willing to hire them without it? Internships, volunteering, and freelance work can help, but these opportunities may be scarce and competitive.
Mental Health and Burnout
The pressure to find employment, coupled with the uncertainty of the job market, can take a toll on mental health. Young job seekers often feel overwhelmed, leading to burnout and a decrease in overall well-being.
Salary Expectations
While young adults in the UK may have high expectations for their salaries, they often find that the actual offers fall short. The gap between expectations and reality can be discouraging and may lead to underemployment.
Automation and AI
Automation and artificial intelligence are rapidly changing the employment landscape. Routine and repetitive jobs are being automated, which can limit job opportunities for young adults entering the workforce.
Generational Differences
Generational differences between older hiring managers and younger job seekers can lead to misunderstandings. Different work styles, expectations, and communication preferences may pose challenges in the recruitment process.
Volatile Industries
Certain industries, like hospitality and retail, were hit harder by the pandemic, making it even more challenging for 18-25-year-olds to find work in these sectors. Shifting industries or retraining may be necessary for some.
Recruitment challenges for 18-25-year-olds in the UK are multifaceted and can make the job search process incredibly disheartening.
However, it’s important to remember that perseverance, adaptability, and resilience are key qualities that can help young adults overcome these hurdles.
Seeking out opportunities for skill development, networking, and seeking mentorship are all strategies that can improve one’s chances of finding a rewarding job in the current job market.
Orbitr has been designed specifically for this purpose, to support you in developing a competitive advantage.
It allows you to truly showcase who you are and what sets you apart from your peers. While the road may be bumpy, there is still hope for a bright and fulfilling career ahead.
