Looking for a Job in IT: Why Graduates Struggle to Find Their First Job.

Job Market Situation for IT Graduates

According to Vox: Colton Massey, a 23-year-old graduate of Drexel University, is actively seeking a good job in computer science after finishing his studies. He earned a degree in software engineering, hoping to avoid the challenges many of his peers faced after the Great Recession.

“When I was 13, I was always on the internet,” Colton tells host Noyl King. “I saw many young people who had just graduated sharing their struggles with finding a job... I always thought, ‘Oh no, I have to do something that will get me a job.’”

Graduating this June, Colton found himself in a job market where entry-level computer science positions are now hard to come by. He applied to about 100 jobs but received no invitations for interviews.

“It’s like: you’re doing everything right, following all the instructions, but the circumstances change,” Colton noted. “You just have to keep going until you find something.”

Decline in Demand for Entry-Level Positions

The situation Colton is in is becoming increasingly common among graduates and those looking to enter the white-collar sector, particularly in computer science and marketing. “I hear about major rejections from job seekers,” says Wall Street Journal reporter Lindsay Ellis. “[The market seems stagnant to many people.]”

“If I had to guess what’s going on, I would say it’s probably related to AI. Is that true?”

According to Ellis, this factor, along with others, has significantly slowed the job market for white-collar workers in recent years. She pointed out that since 2022, many companies have begun to slow down hiring new employees across many sectors. Layoffs in the tech sector, inflation, and geopolitical conflicts have all negatively impacted the situation.

Challenges in the Application Process

Ellis also noted the change in the job application process. “This process can be compared to a war of robots,” she added. Many job seekers experience frustration with corporate software that scans their resumes and ranks them based on qualifications, often leaving good candidates unnoticed.

“I spoke with an executive who said that I tell my children to focus on jobs that require interpersonal communication,”

The Future of Employment Opportunities

Executives note that due to the impact of AI on the job market, there’s a likelihood of job reductions. “Now we need to expect significant changes in job profiles,” Ellis concluded.

This challenging period has proven to be a test for many young people trying to find work. However, some emphasize the importance of their mental health and rest during this difficult process.

The future looks complicated, but skill development and adaptability can be the keys to successful employment for young professionals. It’s crucial to find a balance between professional aspirations and personal well-being, as career success starts with a healthy emotional state.