is it really hard to get a job in this economy? 💼

in 2024, singapore’s job market seems tougher than ever, especially for fresh graduates. some are still searching for their first full-time positions, which got me thinking about how challenging it can be to secure employment, even with qualifications in hand.

during my part-time work, i met several people whose job search journeys have shaped my perspective. like me, some took on part-time roles for practical reasons. personally, i was attracted by the high pay so i can reduce reliance on my parents, but others had more complex situations.

for instance, one woman I worked with had graduated with a diploma in marketing from a college in malaysia. she spent many months applying for marketing jobs but struggled to secure a position. her status as a foreign graduate may have made the search even harder, and eventually she accepted a managerial job at the company to make ends meet.

similarly, another colleague, a Singaporean man with a diploma in business, also faced similar challenges. despite his local qualifications, he couldn’t find a role that aligned with his career goals. in the company i’m working at, he initially started working part-time to earn an allowance when he was schooling. after graduation and months of job hunting, he transitioned to full-time, to secure a stable monthly salary when no other opportunities came through.

these experiences have made me wonder: is it that difficult to find a job, even with a diploma? i’ve also heard that university graduates are facing similar struggles, which has left me considering my own next steps.

as a fresh graduate currently working part-time before starting ns, i often ask myself if refining my skills will give me an edge in this tough market. i’ve recently earned a meta social media marketing certification , but should I focus more on gaining hands-on experience like posting on TikTok as my portfolio and honing specialized skills? or would applying to university increase my chances of standing out in the job market once i have completed my ns? it’s a tough decision. some value practical experience, while others still prioritize higher education. i can’t help but wonder what path will best position me for the future.

how about you? how long did it take you to land your first job?

#SocialDiscussion #GrowingPains #AdultingWoes #RealTalk #employment #jobsearch #AskLemon8 #Lemon8SG