With approximately 1 million 16- to 24-year-olds in the UK currently not in employment, education, or training, and projections suggesting this could rise to 1.25 million by the early 2030s, young people face unprecedented challenges in securing work. We've gathered practical advice from readers who've been there.
Make Your Own Luck
Don't be afraid of being seen as 'cringey'. Put yourself out there, meet people, post content online, and message contacts for help. Many may ignore you, but some will help. Lean into fear and do things anyway; this builds invaluable skills. Christopher, 28, London
Protect Your Self-Esteem
Job rejection can be soul-destroying. Find cheap hobbies that bring joy, connection to nature, or creativity. Volunteering helps you connect and feel worthwhile. Build a life that makes you feel good, with or without a job. Kay, 35, Mathematics Tutor, Staffordshire
Visibility is Everything
Talk to people from different backgrounds. Maintain an active LinkedIn profile and own your career stage. Be curious about others' stories; don't be intimidated by experience. Ask for chats or mentoring. Nikola Doanova, 31, Brighton
Cast Your Net Wide
Focus on securing any job for now, not a dream job. Core skills like communication and teamwork are transferable. Finding a job while employed is easier and less stressful. Be kind to yourself—prioritize wellbeing to bring your best self to applications. Ryan McKiernan, 31, Managing Director, London
Demonstrate Your Value
Create your own opportunity by offering to work on commission for a few months, e.g., creating marketing materials or conducting sales development. This gives experience that home applications can't beat. Tim Castle, Author, Singapore
Accept the First Offer
If you lack specific skills, accept the first job offer and stick with it until you find a better one. Employers value willingness to work. Christine, 75, Kent
Network Relentlessly
Use every network you have and don't be embarrassed. Someone will know someone who can help. Always follow up—pin down a date and time to reconnect. Kuldip, Semi-retired Teacher, Sheffield
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