11 biggest job-related issues facing students, grads, and others early in their careers

Right now, there are several career-related issues that are top of mind for people early in their careers. Many of these concerns stem from the ongoing shifts in the workplace, technological advancements, and changing expectations around work-life balance.

1. Remote work and hybrid models

One of the most discussed topics is the evolving nature of work, particularly remote and hybrid work models. Flexibility has become a major priority for many early-career candidates, with many seeking jobs that offer the ability to work remotely or in a hybrid format. While this flexibility is a big draw, it also comes with challenges—some workers report feeling isolated, while others struggle with the blurred boundaries between work and home life. Navigating this balance has become a significant concern for many people just entering the workforce.

2. Job market volatility

At the same time, the job market remains volatile, and early-career candidates are feeling the pressure. Economic uncertainty, from inflation to potential recessions, has made job security a key worry for new professionals. Hiring freezes, layoffs, and a lack of available positions in certain sectors only add to this anxiety. Alongside this, there’s a noticeable gap between the skills that many candidates have and the skills employers are looking for. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, many early-career professionals are scrambling to upskill or reskill, particularly in industries like tech and digital marketing, where the demand for specific skills is high.

3. Rise of AI and automation

The rise of AI and automation is also top of mind for many people entering the job market. While AI offers new opportunities, there are also fears about job displacement, especially in entry-level positions. Many young professionals are concerned about how automation might impact their roles, and as a result, they’re looking for ways to future-proof their careers by focusing on roles and skills that are less likely to be automated. This has led to a growing emphasis on jobs that require emotional intelligence, creativity, and complex problem-solving—areas where humans still have a significant edge over machines.

4. Mental health and well-being at work

Mental health and well-being have also become major issues in the workplace. Many early-career candidates are seeking employers that offer support for mental health, whether that means providing access to counseling services, fostering a culture of work-life balance, or offering flexible schedules. Burnout is a significant concern for many new workers, especially as the boundaries between home and work continue to blur. Candidates are increasingly looking for organizations that prioritize a positive, inclusive, and supportive culture, recognizing that mental health is just as important as professional development.

5. Networking and career advancement

Another common topic is the challenge of building professional networks. With the shift to remote work, traditional networking has been disrupted, and younger workers are figuring out how to connect with others and build relationships in a virtual world. Many are also seeking mentorship, something that was more easily achieved in in-person settings but has become harder to find in a remote or hybrid work environment. Without formal mentorship programs or in-person interactions, navigating career growth can feel more difficult.

6. Gig economy and freelancing

The gig economy and freelancing have become increasingly popular options for early-career candidates, as many are attracted to the flexibility and independence these paths offer. However, freelancing comes with its own set of challenges, such as lack of job security, benefits like healthcare, and retirement savings plans. The instability of gig work, particularly in industries like creative services or ride-sharing, makes it harder to establish long-term career security.

7. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

A key consideration for many is the issue of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Younger candidates are more likely to choose employers based on their commitment to diversity, not only in terms of gender, race, and sexual orientation but also in fostering an inclusive culture where all employees, regardless of their background, feel heard and supported. The desire to work for a company that actively promotes equal opportunities and a commitment to DEI values is stronger than ever, as young professionals look for workplaces where they can truly thrive and be given equal opportunities for advancement.

8. Salary transparency and fair compensation

Salary transparency and pay equity are also major concerns. The rise of platforms like Glassdoor and recent legislation in some regions have made it easier for candidates to access salary information, which has led to growing demand for transparency around compensation. Early-career workers are becoming more confident in negotiating salaries and pushing for fair pay, but there are still challenges to ensuring equitable compensation across industries, especially in cases where candidates are unaware of typical pay rates or feel unsure of their worth in a competitive job market.

9. Upskilling and continuing education

At the same time, many young professionals are focused on upskilling and continuous learning. With technology and industries evolving so quickly, there’s an increasing emphasis on lifelong learning. Candidates are investing in online courses, certifications, and other forms of training to stay competitive in a fast-changing job market. This commitment to professional development is essential, but it also raises questions about the value of higher education, particularly as student debt continues to be a pressing issue for many people entering the workforce. Some are questioning whether the traditional four-year degree is still the best path to success, especially when alternative career pathways and skill-building programs are becoming more common.

10. Future of work and job flexibility

There’s also a shift towards more flexible work structures, like portfolio careers, where workers juggle multiple part-time roles or freelance projects instead of committing to one full-time job. While this approach offers a lot of autonomy and variety, it also raises questions about job stability and financial security. Some early-career professionals are exploring this model as a way to gain experience in different areas, but it doesn’t come without its challenges, particularly when it comes to managing income and finding health insurance or other benefits.

In addition, the idea of a four-day workweek is gaining traction, as more companies experiment with shorter work hours while maintaining productivity. This idea is especially appealing to early-career candidates who are looking for more balance in their lives, but it’s still relatively new and not widespread. Early-career candidates are also grappling with the difficulty of securing their first full-time job. Many face the frustrating “experience paradox,” where employers want experience, but they need a job to gain it, creating a cycle that can be hard to break. Internships, while essential for gaining experience, often present their own set of challenges, particularly when they are unpaid. This has sparked conversations around fairness and the need for more paid opportunities for young workers.

11. Internships and first jobs

One of the most persistent concerns is how to secure that first full-time role. Early-career candidates often feel stuck in the “experience paradox”—they need experience to get a job, but they need a job to get experience.

While internships are a key pathway into the workforce, the rise of unpaid internships has sparked discussions around fairness and equity. Early-career candidates are increasingly calling for more paid opportunities, especially for those who may not have the financial resources to work without compensation.