Gen Z's Job Hunt Hurdles: Are They Ready or Is the System Broken?

The job market for young people in the UK is tough. Nearly a million people aged 16 to 24 were not in education, employment, or training (NEET) between July and September 2025. That's a lot of young people struggling to find their footing. The government is so concerned that they launched an independent review into the NEET crisis. But it's not just about the economy. Employers say young people lack the skills needed to succeed in the workplace. They're not ready to work. This isn't their fault. Many missed out on critical social development during the Covid-19 pandemic. Schools closed, and jobs for teens disappeared. Soft skills are crucial for any job. Things like teamwork, communication, and showing up on time. But many young people didn't get the chance to learn these skills. They were stuck at home, learning online. Now, they're entering a job market that's changed dramatically.Big companies like KPMG and PWC are noticing this skills gap. They're offering training to help young recruits build resilience and improve their soft skills. But is this enough? Or should we be looking at bigger changes in how we prepare young people for work? One idea is to go back to old-school job hunting. Instead of sending endless CVs online, young people should try talking to employers in person. This can build confidence and open doors. It's a simple idea, but it might make a big difference. The job market is tough, but young people aren't doomed. With the right support and a bit of old-fashioned effort, they can find their way. But the system needs to change too. We need to give young people the skills and opportunities they need to succeed.