Are Gen Z Struggling to Find Work? What Can Be Done

For many Gen Z graduates, the excitement of finishing school is quickly replaced by anxiety. Finding a job in today’s market isn’t just hard, 

it feels nearly impossible. Applications are going out, but responses are not coming in. And even when interviews happen, they often lead nowhere.

Across Canada and beyond, young people aged 15 to 24 are facing a job market that isn’t welcoming. The youth unemployment rate is more than double that of older workers. 

For students planning to return to school in the fall, it’s even worse. Many of them are being left out of the workforce entirely.

A Tough Start

Getting a first job has never been easy. But in 2025, it’s especially difficult. Inflation is high, the economy feels uncertain, and the rise of automation and artificial intelligence is changing how companies hire. 

At the same time, many young people don’t have the savings, connections or flexibility to move where the jobs are.

Without work experience, it becomes even harder to land better opportunities later. Entry-level jobs in retail, restaurants and customer service once a standard first step are fewer or being filled by more experienced workers. 

And when young people miss that first step, it can delay everything: income, independence, even personal confidence.

What Gen Z Can Try

Still, it’s not all bad news. Gen Z is creative, tech-savvy, and driven by purpose. While the system may be slow to adjust, young people can try new ways to get their foot in the door.

Try something different
Not every career path has to start with a traditional 9-to-5. Internships, volunteer roles, and even side projects like managing social media for a local business or freelancing online can build valuable skills. They also help you stand out.

Focus on real-world skills
Employers are looking for more than degrees. Skills like critical thinking, creativity, resilience and teamwork matter. You can build these through community work, school clubs, or leading small group projects.

Learn what the future needs
Technology is changing everything. Micro-courses or certifications in AI, data skills or digital marketing can make a big difference and many are low-cost or free. If you can’t afford university right now, hands-on programs or apprenticeships can be just as powerful.

Build your network
You don’t need to know a CEO to build a network. Start with classmates, neighbours, mentors or people at your place of worship or volunteer group. These connections can help you hear about jobs early and get recommendations that stand out.

What you should know

The challenges Gen Z faces are real, and they can’t solve them alone. Governments, schools and companies must step up to create more inclusive, accessible paths into work. 

But while the big changes take time, young people can still make smart moves today.

You don’t have to follow a perfect plan. Just keep learning, stay open, and don’t be afraid to take a different route. Every skill you gain, every connection you make—it all counts.

Gen Z may be entering the workforce at a tough moment, but this generation also has something powerful: the ability to adapt, question the old ways, and imagine better ones. And that’s a solid place to start.