Finding a job in 2024 is ‘soul-destroying’

As job prospects narrow across the UK, recent graduates in Kingston upon Thames are feeling the effects of a highly competitive job market.

Despite Kingston’s proximity to London and a strong network of local businesses, graduates are finding that landing a stable, full-time job is harder than expected.

“I’ve applied to over 300 positions, from finance to marketing roles, but the responses are mostly rejections or no replies at all,” said Catalina Morro, who graduated this year with a degree in finance.

“It’s tough because I expected things to be challenging, but not to this extent. Finding a job in 2024 is soul-destroying.”

Many other graduates in Kingston shared similar sentiments, reporting that they’re often competing with experienced professionals for entrylevel roles.

“It’s absolutely mental how they want ‘fresh minds’ but with said plus years of experience,” said Yesha Dave, who graduated with a merit degree in professional writing.

“I have a Bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, relevant work experiences, perfect LinkedIn plus CV and professional placement experience, and yet, here I am, applying to uncountable entry-level jobs per day,” she added.

The Office for National Statistics data shows that unemployment rose in Kingston upon Thames compared with the previous year.

On top of that one of the most significant challenges young people face is the cost of living in, which has surged, putting additional pressure on job-seeking graduates.

“It feels like we’re stuck,” said Alex Turner, a recent graphic design graduate. “I’m working part-time at a cafe while freelancing, but it’s barely covering the basics. I’d love to work in design full-time, but there’s not much out there.”

Local businesses are aware of the struggles young people are facing but note that practical skills remain a barrier to employment.

Sarah, an HR manager at a Kingston-based consultancy, explained, “We see the enthusiasm and creativity, but often there’s a need for hands-on experience that grads just don’t have yet.

“We’re looking at ways to offer training or apprenticeships, but our own resources are limited right now.”

Many graduates also find it challenging to explain to their families just how difficult the job search has become.

Paulina Blanco, a 23-year-old graduate, said: “I feel so helpless, I wish I could explain to my parents that it’s not as easy as sending your resume to the company you want to work at. They fail to understand that having ‘a good degree and good skills’ are no longer tenable. I don’t think they would understand how it feels being ghosted by companies.”

Many international students also worry that their prospects are at risk. They are facing the painful reality that without job offers and sponsorship, they may have to return to their home countries despite years spent building lives and skills in the UK.

“I worked hard to build a future here, but without a job, my visa options are limited,” says Riya Patel, a recent Kingston University graduate. “Having to leave feels like I’m losing a chance at the career and life I hoped for here. It’s discouraging, especially when I know I have a lot to offer.”