Gen Z job market struggles far worse than previous generations
Nearly 60% of Gen Z graduates remain unemployed, a stark contrast to the 25% of millennials and Gen X who faced similar challenges.
Recent research confirms what many Gen Z graduates have suspected: the job market is significantly harder for them than it was for millennials and Gen X. According to a report by Kickresume, 58% of recent graduates are still searching for their first job, compared to just 25% of previous generations.
Key Findings:
- 12% of Gen Z graduates secured full-time jobs by graduation, versus 40% of older generations.
- The job hunt has become a full-time job for many, with some sending 1,700 applications without success.
- 4.3 million young people are now classified as NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training).
Why Is It Harder?
- AI and Automation: Entry-level roles are being replaced by AI agents and chatbots.
- Tightening Market: White-collar jobs are scarce, with 20% of job-seekers searching for over a year.
- Unconventional Tactics: Gen Z is resorting to creative methods like delivering donuts or waitressing at conferences to stand out.
Expert Advice:
- Lewis Maleh, CEO of Bentley Lewis, notes that the education system is failing to deliver on its promise of job readiness.
- Kickresume advises graduates to start anywhere—the first job is just a stepping stone.
"You need to keep reassessing your process so that every no gets you closer to that next yes," says Basant Shenouda, who landed a job at LinkedIn after waitressing at a marketing conference.
For more insights, explore the 2025 Fortune 500 list.
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About the Author
Dr. Sarah Chen
AI Research Expert
A seasoned AI expert with 15 years of research experience, formerly worked at Stanford AI Lab for 8 years, specializing in machine learning and natural language processing. Currently serves as technical advisor for multiple AI companies and regularly contributes AI technology analysis articles to authoritative media like MIT Technology Review.