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Staff Writer
Gen-Z is 1996-2012.
The current job market reveals a broad spectrum of experiences for Generation Z job seekers, from frustrating obstacles to unexpected successes, mirroring shifting economic conditions and industry trends.
Many job seekers are facing stagnant wages and limited opportunities.
“I have a degree but it’s in communications and media, and most entry-level jobs pay $15 an hour,” said Izzy A., who currently works at a Sam’s Club earning $17 an hour. This discrepancy highlights the challenges faced by those with specialized degrees.
A broader economic impact was noted by Terah S.
“Wages are still low and COVID made things significantly worse,” Terah S. said, despite holding a master’s degree in a high-demand field.
The tech industry has shown significant fluctuations.
“2019 was crazy, but lots of places were hiring. 2020 was surprisingly good, with many remote jobs. 2021 was really good, but 2022 saw a downturn. 2023 was barren, and 2024 is worse,” said Kermit C., a cybersecurity professional. This volatility underscores the challenges and shifting opportunities within the tech sector.
For some, the job search has been a prolonged struggle.
“I’ve been unemployed for about a year and a half but not from lack of trying,” said Linda S., who has faced persistent silence from employers despite numerous applications and resume revisions.
“It’s doing a number on my mental health,” she said.
In contrast, others have found success through unconventional routes or strategic career moves. John L., who has extensive experience and high-level education, secured a position in insurance after fortuitously meeting an agent who needed a new account manager.
“I got extremely lucky,” John L. said.
Another individual, without a college degree, achieved success in sales, progressing from a telemarketer to an account manager with a competitive salary.
“Sales is the only way out if you don’t have college,” they stated.
Young job seekers also face unique challenges. A 19-year-old student majoring in accounting and finance reported applying for more than 500 jobs with no success.
“It’s been a pain,” they said, highlighting the difficulties of balancing academic commitments with job search efforts.
These varied experiences reflect the complex and often challenging landscapes of today’s job market, where success often depends on persistence, strategic career choices, and sometimes, sheer luck.
