The Struggles of Gen Z in the Job Market
Finding a job has become an increasingly challenging task for Gen Z, with many sharing their experiences openly on platforms like TikTok. These young individuals are not only dealing with heightened competition but also navigating the impact of artificial intelligence on the job market.
The Data Behind the Struggle
In the UK, one in eight young people is neither in employment nor education, according to recent statistics from the Office for National Statistics. This trend is mirrored across the European Union, where the unemployment rate among those aged 15-24 has risen to 14.9%, up by 0.4% from 2023, despite a general decline in overall unemployment rates. In the United States, the situation is similarly concerning, with college graduates facing an unemployment rate of 6.6%, which is higher than the national average of 4.2%.
First-Hand Experiences
The data tells a story, but it’s the personal accounts that truly highlight the struggles. A UK-based TikToker named @.shanti.f shared her frustration, stating, “The appeal of unemployment has officially worn off, BORED is an understatement.” She expressed the pressure of needing money to support her lifestyle and the emotional toll of discussing job applications with family members.
Other users have echoed similar sentiments. One person mentioned crying during a conversation with a family member after six months of searching for work. Another questioned whether others were turning to part-time jobs as a last resort. A third user shared the experience of being unemployed for over a year, highlighting the difficulty of maintaining hope.
Malini, a recent graduate from Cambridge University, documented her six-month job search, during which she was unemployed for four months. Despite speaking three languages, she found it challenging to secure employment. She applied for 97 jobs and made it to the interview stage for 10.3% of them, receiving just one offer.
The Impact of AI
Artificial intelligence is playing a significant role in reshaping the job market. It is taking over entry-level tasks that were once performed by graduates. According to Bloomberg, AI could replace more than 50% of the tasks carried out by market research analysts (53%) and sales representatives (67%), compared to just 18% and 21% for managerial roles, respectively.
The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 indicates that 40% of employers plan to reduce their workforce where AI can automate tasks. Additionally, 49% of Gen Z individuals believe that AI has diminished the value of their college education.
Dr. Nariman Farvardin, president of Stevens Institute of Technology, explained that AI has the potential to either enhance or completely replace jobs that involve repetitive tasks. He noted that these jobs are often held by individuals who perform them throughout their careers, making them particularly vulnerable.
The Broader Implications
The influence of AI extends beyond just job displacement. There have been instances where AI tools like ChatGPT have led to rejections in job applications. Moreover, corporate ‘love bombing’—a tactic used to manipulate employees—has become a growing concern.
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