Survey finds next generation feels uncertain of finding work

A SURVEY has found 45 per cent of young people are not confident, or are unsure, of finding work in their chosen career after completing their studies, with many wanting more jobs to be created and extra help finding work through opportunities such as paid internships and training.

A survey of more than 1,000 youths by Student Edge’s market research arm, YouthInsight, in partnership with frontline youth service ReachOut, found that 45 per cent of young people were not confident or unsure of finding work in their chosen career after completing studies, with 46 per cent fairly confident and only nine per cent very confident of finding work.

ReachOut chief executive officer Ashley de Silva said the results of the survey showed that many young people felt unprepared to enter the new working world.

“The platform economy, driven by services like Uber and Airtasker, is on the up as is a shift towards short-term contractual work or ‘gigs’ and freelancing.

“With this new data showing that so many young people are uncertain about their future, it’s clear that we need to have a robust public conversation around what new skills and training are needed to provide the greatest chance of success.

“This lack of confidence is about the future, but it affects the mental health of young people right now. The uncertainty that surrounds the transition from study to work means that it is a priority to look at how we can best support the mental health and wellbeing needs of young people.”

The survey also asked young people what changes needed to be made to help them find work. 74 per cent said there needed to be more opportunities for paid internships and training positions, and 72 per cent said more jobs needed to be created for young people.

Student Edge head of membership Simon Miraudo said that young people faced barriers to getting full-time work, with many employers looking for previous work experience and seeking soft skills such as problem solving, creativity and good communication.

“When it comes to helping young people get a job, we need to make sure they have the right skills.”