Our Advice Column: Job-hunting for young people

I finished school in the summer and since then I’ve applied for countless jobs, but I’m not having any luck - most companies don’t even bother getting back to me. It’s really getting me down - what can I do to be more successful?

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Navigating your first steps into the world of work can be really daunting. If you’re struggling to find a job, you’re not alone. Nearly one million young people aged 16 to 24 in the UK are not in education, employment or training. Clearly, there are some big structural and economic issues that are making it hard for young people to find work, but there are still things you can do.

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When you’re applying for a job, it’s vital to do your homework. Make sure you’ve done your research about both the role and the employer, and adjust your CV to fit the position you’re applying for. Employers will usually want to know why you’re interested in working for them specifically, so take some time to look into who they are and their values as an organisation. Then discuss how they align with what you’re looking for in a role in your application.

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Be cautious about using AI. When you’re feeling the pressure to get out as many applications as possible, it can be tempting to turn to AI to help you write your CV, cover letter or application form. But employers can usually tell when you’ve used AI, and some may use AI detection tools when screening your application. It might put them off wanting to progress your application, so it’s best to always use your own words.

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If you’re worried about your lack of experience, one way to make your CV stand out from the crowd is to try volunteering. Not only will you gain vital skills and work experience but also make a positive difference to people’s lives. For example, volunteering in your local Citizens Advice service can give you office experience and customer service skills - you can find out more about opportunities in your area on our website or you can find out more about volunteering at Citizens Advice Middlesbrough on our website.

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If you’re struggling financially, you should check what benefits you’re able to get. If you’re over 18 (or in some cases 16 or 17), not in education or training, and you have less than £16,000 in savings or other investments, you may be eligible for Universal Credit. You might also be able to get 'new style' Jobseeker’s Allowance for up to six months while you look for a job. You can check what benefits you can get on the Citizens Advice website.

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And lastly, job hunting can take a real toll on your mental wellbeing. Endless applications, back-to-back rejections or  - worse - being ghosted entirely can all chip away at your self-esteem and affect your mental health. If you’re finding it tough, there’s help and support available. You can reach out to organisations like StudentMinds, try YoungMinds or get in touch with Mind - you don’t have to face it alone.

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