As the UK's job market grapples with a looming skills gap, an estimated one million 16- to 24-year-olds are currently out of work, education, or training. With projections suggesting this figure could surge to 1.25 million by the early 2030s, young people are facing unprecedented challenges in securing employment.
But according to those who've navigated these waters successfully, there's hope for a brighter future. Christopher, now 28 and based in London, credits proactive networking and online presence with helping him find his footing. 'Make your own luck' is his advice to young jobseekers – connect with others, share content, and don't be afraid of being seen as 'different'. He recounts reaching out to numerous professionals for coffee meetings and interview assistance, acknowledging that while many didn't respond, some proved instrumental in his career progression.
Kay, a 35-year-old mathematics tutor from Staffordshire, shares her own experience of being unemployed for two years – a period marked by severe mental health strain and financial worry. Her advice centres on prioritising mental wellbeing, suggesting cheap hobbies that bring joy, connection to nature, or creative pursuits to maintain sanity. She also advocates for volunteering as a way to connect with others and find purpose, stressing the importance of building a fulfilling life irrespective of employment status.
For Nikola Doanova, 31, from Brighton, visibility is key. She advises young people to engage with diverse individuals and maintain an active LinkedIn profile. Her advice encourages jobseekers to own their career journey, be curious about others' stories, and not be intimidated by more experienced professionals – instead, admire them and seek informal chats or mentoring opportunities.
Ryan McKiernan, 31, a managing director of a London charity, takes a pragmatic approach. He advises jobseekers to 'cast their net wide' and focus on securing any job for the present, rather than solely pursuing a 'dream job'. Core professional skills are highly transferable, he notes, and gaining experience is beneficial – finding a new job can often be easier when already employed, and career aspirations can be pursued later. Crucially, he stresses the importance of self-kindness and prioritising personal wellbeing, as a healthy mental and physical state enables individuals to perform their best in applications and interviews.
Some are even creating their own opportunities by offering value to businesses on a commission-only basis for a few months, focusing on revenue-generating activities such as creating marketing materials or conducting sales development. This 'foot in the door' approach can demonstrate worth and lead to more permanent roles – giving young jobseekers a sense of control over their employment prospects.