Source: Fortune
Summary
Recent graduates are facing a changing job market, with fewer entry-level jobs available and more turning to alternative paths such as starting their own businesses, gig work, and freelance work. According to a ZipRecruiter survey, 38% of graduates are considering starting their own business, while 32.5% are looking at gig work and 28% are exploring freelance work. The survey also found that entry-level job postings have decreased, making it harder for recent graduates to start their careers. Despite this, 77% of the class of 2025 found a role within three months of graduation, with many opting for roles outside of their desired field.
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The numbers tell one story.
Gen Z graduates are piecing together experience through internships, side work, and starting their own ventures, as labor economist Nicole Bachaud notes. Meanwhile, companies like Block, Meta, and Microsoft are cutting jobs due to AI efficiency. Entry-level job postings have decreased, making it harder for recent graduates to start their careers. The unemployment rate for recent grads has swelled to 5.6%, up 1.7 percentage points since October 2022. Despite this, 77% of the class of 2025 found a role within three months of graduation, with many opting for roles outside of their desired field. The old model of graduating and finding an entry-level job is no longer the norm.
Author: Evan Null
