As cracks begin to surface in the labor market, young adults are often the first to be impacted. Approximately 16% of 18- to 24-year-olds are not employed or enrolled in school, referred to as “disconnected youth” or “NEETs.” Factors such as discouragement due to economic standing, weak job networks, college degree requirements, lack of transportation, and limited child care access contribute to their disengagement from the workforce. While the youth unemployment rate reached 9.1% in July, it has fluctuated over the years, with the rate falling below 7% in 2023 during a strong economy.
A significant portion of young adults in the United States fall under the category of NEETs, with about 11.2% of individuals aged 15 to 24 considered as such in 2023. This trend, particularly prevalent among young men due to diminishing opportunities in traditional male-dominated fields like construction and manufacturing, highlights a gender discrepancy in job disengagement. Additionally, the majority of disconnected young adults have at most a high school diploma, indicating educational limitations as a contributing factor to their unemployment.
Recent reports highlight the emergence of a group referred to as “new unemployables,” comprising highly skilled workers who struggle to secure employment opportunities. Employer focus on talent retention and mobility has led to a decrease in job openings for qualified candidates, creating a challenging job market landscape for young adults. While the teen employment rate has seen an improvement, early 20-somethings face difficulties in finding job opportunities, with hiring projections for the class of 2024 decreasing by 5.8%.
Despite these challenges, there are strategies that young adults can employ to improve their employability. Initiatives such as reaching out to former employers or colleagues, updating resumes with relevant keywords, and showcasing expertise through industry-related content can increase visibility to potential employers. Advised against limiting oneself to roles with immediate advancement, focusing on obtaining new skills through lower positions to build a strong foundation for future career development is recommended.
In response to the changing job market dynamics, young adults are encouraged to proactively seek opportunities for growth and development. By leveraging networking strategies, improving visibility through industry-related content, and adapting career goals to encompass a broader range of experiences, individuals can enhance their employability and navigate through challenging labor market conditions. Amidst fluctuations in hiring trends and job availability, taking proactive steps towards career advancement can help young adults transition from being perceived as “unemployable” to securing fulfilling job opportunities in their desired field.
