Moves To Beat The Worst Job Market Gen Z Has Ever Seen
I’m so sorry, Gen Z. This is not how it’s supposed to be for you. It’s tough out there, and you are facing the Moves To Beat The Worst Job Market Gen Z Has Ever Seen. Who would have thought that 2025 would be one of the worst job markets in history? I don’t think any of us had this on our Bingo card.
According to a recent article in Axios, if you’re a new graduate, it’s almost impossible to find a job. And it doesn’t look like it’s getting much better. A recent Bankrate Economic Indicator Survey suggests that many economists expect the unemployment rate in the United States to hit a whopping 4.6% by June 2026. This would be the highest unemployment rate since September 2021, when the U.S. was still recovering from the coronavirus pandemic.
Now, if I were in your shoes, I might be grabbing a paper bag, breathing deep, and hoping the dizziness fades. But here’s the good news. Even though the job market might feel chaotic right now, it doesn’t mean it’s hopeless. In fact, while everyone around you is freaking out, this could very well be your time to stand out with the right strategy.
Why Is This Happening?
Why does it feel like every business is closing its doors and keeping Gen Z from even getting the chance to interview? Some research suggests this economic downturn is due to ongoing tariffs and policy changes. However, in contrast, other reports indicate that the lack of employment options is a direct consequence of the influx of AI. After all, 23.5% of U.S. companies have already replaced workers with ChatGPT or similar tools. That number is expected to increase to 30% by 2030.
So, who has the correct information? Is there one answer that makes sense above all the rest? Well, here’s the thing: you’ll never have all the facts. Every company is cutting back for one reason or another. Trying to figure out precisely what went wrong in this job market is like trying to pinpoint the exact moment your past relationship failed. Some things happen, and they’ll never make sense. But don’t worry. Having all the answers isn’t necessary for getting the job of your dreams, or a job that can pay the bills for now.
If you have the right strategy, you can make the right choices, even when you’re facing one of the worst job markets of your generation. So, grab that coffee, put on some calming jazz, and get ready to learn these three smart moves you can make in today’s job market.
1. Think Bigger Than Your College Degree
If you have an extensive degree in 19th-century literature, now might be the time to expand your work options. Because let’s face it, the chances of you getting a high-paying job in your specific field of study are slim to none right now. But take heart, 50% of college grads have jobs that have absolutely nothing to do with their previous degrees.
So, rather than look for a position that fits your background, figure out what you can bring to the table that’s outside of your degree. This mindset will help you expand your job application options. And it will open up possibilities that you might not have considered. For instance, if you’re a great communicator but majored in tech, you might want to look for a position that requires public speaking skills. On the other hand, if you could sell a sweater in a heatwave, consider exploring some effective marketing options.
2. How To Pivot Fast And Often
Gone are the days of working for the same company for forty years. It just doesn’t happen anymore. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it might be the best opportunity ahead of you, and here’s why. Consider this: if evolution is the only constant that we can depend on, then maybe it’s the only security we should seek when it comes to navigating this job market.
Look, I get it. Constantly having to pivot in your career can be downright exhausting and depressing. But I want to encourage you that history repeats itself. This moment will not last forever. Just look at what Millennials dealt with after graduating from college back in the early 2000s. The economy was an absolute wreck. However, it didn’t stay that way. The business started to boom again, and companies were open to hiring once more. And this leads into my last point.
3. Target Recession-Proof Industries
Flexibility should be your pillar of strength at the moment. Because when you face the unknown like a willow tree, instead of breaking with adversity, you will bend with resilience. So, when you’re looking through job applications, permit yourself to think of your job prospects from a much broader view. And make a list of options that are specifically recession-proof. Again, you might have to settle for a job that doesn’t quite meet all of your expectations on paper, but if it pays the bills, gives you the chance to learn new skills, and increases your network, it’s the best job you can have right now.
So, where should you start looking? Well, here’s a list of a few recession-proof business options to check out:
- Financial advisors and accountants
- Childcare services
- The healthcare industry
- Property management
- Home repair and contracting
- Residential and commercial cleaning services
- Technology support, including cybersecurity and IT services
- Auto repair
- Freelancing
- Dog-walking and pet-sitting
- Online selling (also known as e-commerce)
The most crucial factor to consider at this moment is simply figuring out your best move. And that might look vastly different than what you expected. Because here’s the truth: you are facing one of the worst job markets in history, but with these three strategies, you can leverage this moment for your professional success. All it takes is the ability to think outside the box, explore options beyond your degree, and pivot when necessary. If you can start there, you’ll be unstoppable.
Credit: Forbes.com
