Why Gen Z Is Struggling To Find Work In The UK

Many young people in the UK are finding it hard to get a job. Even after finishing college or university, work is not easy to find. There are fewer beginner-level jobs, more competition, and employers want experience that many young people don’t yet have.

Main reasons why Gen Z is struggling:

Fewer entry-level jobs:
Companies are hiring fewer freshers than before. This means there are not enough starter jobs for young people who are just beginning their careers.

Too much competition:
Millions of people apply for the same jobs. In some cases, more than two unemployed people are competing for just one job, making it very hard to stand out.

Money and economic pressure:
Rising prices and the cost of living have made life expensive. Many young workers are forced to accept low-paying or temporary jobs, and salary growth has slowed down.

Skills gap and work readiness:
Many employers feel that young people are not fully “work-ready.” While they have degrees, they may lack real-life work experience and soft skills like communication, confidence, and problem-solving.

Impact of AI and technology:
AI is changing how jobs work. Employers now want digital skills, critical thinking, and adaptability—skills that many traditional courses don’t fully teach.

Effect of pandemic lockdowns:
During COVID-19, many students studied online at home. This reduced social interaction and workplace exposure, making it harder for some young people to adjust to office life.

High hopes vs. harsh reality:
Gen Z wants meaningful work and growth, but low starting salaries and tough competition often force them to take multiple jobs just to cover basic expenses.

The result

A degree no longer guarantees a job. Young people now need practical skills, apprenticeships, internships, and early work experience to succeed in today’s job market.