For Generation Z, searching for employment post-graduation can be a challenging journey.

Angel Escobedo began his job hunt a year and a half ago, even before completing his degree at Saint Xavier University in Chicago. Now, with graduation less than a week away and over 150 applications submitted, he is still searching for employment. His experience reflects the difficulties many young Americans face entering the workforce, even with strong academic credentials, amid fewer available positions and competition with experienced candidates.

"They are missing opportunities to smoothly enter the job market," said Elise Gould, senior economist at the Economic Policy Institute. "Its not a new trend, but it is a concerning one."

For young professionals eager to begin their careers, the hurdles can be discouraging. Escobedo, 22, has completed multiple internships and a management program at Harvard Business School. Seeking roles in finance or business operations, he describes the job search as "very discouraging" and is open to a wide range of positions.

Gen Z job seekers must navigate a rapidly changing hiring landscape, where AI screening and self-recorded video interviews are becoming common. While applications are easy to submit, standing out is increasingly difficult, adding stress to the process. Career experts warn that missing early career opportunities could have long-term professional and financial consequences.

Gorick Ng, a Harvard career adviser, explained that fewer entry-level openings make it harder for young workers to gain experience, limiting resume-building opportunities and future career growth.

Slower Hiring Rates

Breaking into the workforce has always been challenging for young adults, and the current market is particularly tough. Hiring rates have declined since 2022, now hovering just above 3%, below historical averages. Economic uncertainty, including government policy and tariffs, has caused employers to delay hiring.

The overall unemployment rate in September was 4.4%, significantly lower than the 9.2% unemployment rate for 20- to 24-year-olds.

Even when young professionals secure positions, opportunities for advancement are limited. Many seasoned employees remain in their roles due to economic uncertainty, slowing turnover and restricting chances for Gen Z to gain promotions or negotiate higher salaries.

Early Career Challenges

Alan Gonzalez, 23, from Malden, Massachusetts, is pursuing a career in digital marketing. Despite internships and hands-on experience, he has found it difficult to land interviews and currently works as a restaurant server. To gain experience, he has launched his own streetwear brand, HOJA Apparel, while continuing his job search.

Right now, experience is the priority, Gonzalez said.

Industry-Specific Hurdles

Some fields, such as accounting, engineering, and technology, offer fewer entry-level roles compared to senior positions, increasing competition for younger applicants. In software development, for example, about 30% of job listings are for senior roles, while only 2% are for junior positions.

Technology has made applying for jobs easier, but it has also raised the bar. AI and digital tools streamline applications, but employers now expect more from candidates. Experts recommend returning to basic strategies: networking, early job searches, and direct engagement with hiring decision-makers.

Escobedo is focusing on traditional networking to gain attention from employers. "Ive told my peers, just like it takes a village to raise a child, it now takes a village to secure a full-time role after college," he said.

Author: Gavin Porter