The Challenge of Starting Your Career

Growing up as the daughter of immigrants from Jamaica, Stacey Watson didn't see herself in the characters of the books she read. Now 28, she aspires to be a book editor who promotes a more diverse range of story protagonists so that young people feel represented. However, despite earning a master's degree, completing four internships, and working several part-time jobs, she hasn't landed a full-time staff position and lives with her parents in Brooklyn to make ends meet.

Watson's experience reflects the broader difficulties facing job seekers in today's economy. Economic uncertainty has led employers to hesitate in adding staff, and workers are less likely to leave their jobs, creating a stagnant environment. Since the coronavirus pandemic, the unemployment rate for college graduates aged 22 to 27 has outpaced the general population's joblessness rate.

Building Your Network

In a tight job market, having connections can make all the difference. When employers use artificial intelligence to filter through hundreds of resumes, a personal introduction can help candidates stand out. Start by leveraging internships, part-time jobs, alumni networks, and professional organizations to build relationships.

Jennifer Moglia, 22, shared her success story: during her music business internship, she created a spreadsheet to track everyone she met, their conversations, and shared interests. She then reached out on LinkedIn for one-on-one meetings, making it easy for contacts by offering to book times herself. This networking effort paid off—most of her interviews came from companies where she had connections, and she now works as a venue marketing coordinator for Live Nation Entertainment in New York.

Keep an Open Mind

Flexibility is key. Consider jobs outside your college major or ideal career path if your chosen field is oversaturated. Skills are often transferable, and casting a wide net can lead to unexpected opportunities. As one expert noted, many 40-year-olds aren't working in the exact field they studied in college.

Luke Sutton, 24, a dramatic writing graduate, faced challenges due to the Hollywood writers' strike halting hiring. After applying for over 1,000 jobs, he landed a role as a creative assistant at a healthcare advertising agency. Though it wasn't his dream job, he emphasized the importance of staying open-minded and focusing on positions that utilize his writing skills.

Adapting to Artificial Intelligence

As artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent, employers seek candidates who can use and adapt to this technology. Understanding AI's strengths and limitations is crucial, and adaptability is a highly valued skill. Some employers are delaying entry-level hires because AI can handle certain tasks, but AI can also help bridge experience gaps through virtual internships and apprenticeships.

Give Yourself Grace

A prolonged job search doesn't reflect your worth. Economic factors often play a larger role than individual effort. It's important to stay persistent and not get discouraged. Aileen Ryan, 23, who has submitted 400 applications without an offer, continues to push forward, knowing her value and goals.

Remember, the job market is tough, but with networking, flexibility, and resilience, you can navigate these challenges and find your path.