Finding a job as a young person can seem like a major challenge. Are you exploring what you like? Do you have no experience? Do you want to find a stable, decent job with a future to become independent? We share 5 keys, with data and tips, so you can better understand how the labor market works and position yourself better to find your place of work.
1. Your training matters (a lot)
It seems obvious, but it is not always valued enough: your level of education is one of the factors that most influences your chances of working. However, it is not just about obtaining a degree, but about finding professional training that connects with you and responds to the needs of companies.
2. Working and studying at the same time opens doors
More than 75% of young people between 16 and 24 are studying, but only 15% combine studies and work. And it is precisely this combination that many companies value most: it shows that you have commitment, the capacity for effort, and organization. Any experience will provide you with skills that you can later apply in other professional fields.
3. “Soft skills” are the most valued
Not everything is learned in the classroom. In such a changing world, so-called soft skills are increasingly important. You can develop them in many contexts: volunteering, your own projects, cultural or sports activities, even taking care of your younger siblings. Learn to identify which ones you have and how to demonstrate them. A CV with concrete examples makes a difference.
4. Opportunities are changing (moving towards digital and green)
Official reports insist that new employment niches are linked to the digital and ecological transition. Programming, data analysis, cybersecurity, sustainability, renewable energy, electric mobility, recycling, or regenerative agriculture… all these sectors are growing. The hiring needs of these sectors are growing every day. And often, university studies are not necessary, but rather good technical vocational training.
5. Surround yourself well and never stop learning
Looking for a job can be exhausting, but it doesn’t have to be a lonely path. There are career guidance and job search support programs, mentoring with volunteers from the sector that interests you, youth employment offices with job boards for young people, job fairs, and even TikTok can help you discover experiences and opportunities.
Hiring depends on the economic context, but your employability depends on you. Stay informed, get trained, get connected, ask for help, and let yourself be guided. A positive and proactive attitude is the key to finding the job you want and so you can say out loud: I am what I want to be!
