For recent college graduates, the job market can be daunting. Eight Americans who completed their degrees during the Great Recession in 2007-2010 share their experiences and advice for navigating this challenging landscape.
The unemployment rate among recent graduates is higher than ever, with 5.8% of those aged 22-27 out of work compared to 4% of the overall workforce. This gap is the widest it’s been in 35 years of jobs data.
Despite these challenges, many of the individuals interviewed managed to find work and build successful careers. They attribute their success to taking every interview opportunity, networking, and being open to non-traditional job paths.
One key takeaway from their experiences is that your first job doesn’t have to be your dream job. Alicia Strata, a marketing director at a luxury travel agency, took an unpaid internship with Teach For America to gain valuable leadership skills and eventually landed her desired career in marketing.
Patrice Williams-Lindo, a CEO of a career coaching platform, advises recent graduates not to chase name-brand companies, but rather target smaller firms that value their skills. Kourtney Jason, the cofounder of a digital marketing company, emphasizes the importance of investing time and effort into job searching and networking.
For those in industries hit hard by the recession, such as interior design or education, creativity and flexibility are key. Tye Davis, an interior designer, sought out high-end stores to find work, while Mandi St. Germaine, an elementary curriculum coach, was open to accepting temporary positions until a permanent job was offered.
Judnefera Rasayon, a foreign service officer with the US Department of State, prioritized stability and flexibility in her job search strategy, which helped her weather the Great Recession.
The common thread among these individuals is that they were willing to take risks, be open to new opportunities, and prioritize stability and success. Their experiences offer valuable insights for recent college graduates navigating a tough job market.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/job-search-advice-great-recession-graduates-gen-z-hiring-2025-7