The data is in: Gen Z face a more competitive job market than their predecessors
Entering the workforce for the first time is, and always has been, a daunting prospect. But Gen Z – the generation of talent starting out on this journey – are beginning their careers at a time of huge disruption, facing higher competition for roles, technological change and uncertain growth paths.
Drawing on a survey of 11,250 talent and an analysis of 126 million job postings globally, Randstad’s latest research shows that despite rising levels of talent scarcity, there is a steady decline in entry-level roles across sectors.
This complex work environment fosters a core paradox: Gen Z are ambitious and capable – but struggling to find a foothold.
The data paints a picture of a generation that is both determined and disoriented. And employers will need to reimagine career paths if they are to inspire and retain young workers.
A confidence gap and fewer entry-level opportunities
Central to the challenges Gen Z talent face is the decline in available roles. Our analysis shows that global entry-level job postings have fallen by 29 percentage points since January 2024.
This, of course, results in greater competition, and accordingly, Gen Z talent appear to be settling for opportunities that don’t fit their long-term ambitions. In fact, almost half say that their current role does not align with their dream career.
Gen Z are also moving on faster from roles than their older peers at the same point in their careers. Their average tenure stands at just 1.1 years in the first five years of their career, compared with 1.8 for millennials, 2.8 for Gen X and 2.9 for baby boomers at the same career point.
