Canada’s unemployment rate remains 6.9 percent in April. This relative stability in the labor market continues in spite of ongoing economic turbulence. A troubling trend has developed within our young people. The unemployment rate has climbed to more than 15 percent—the highest rate in two decades, excepting pandemic-related numbers.
Emily Durham, a long-time career coach, makes her base in Michigan. She’s the host of the Straight Shooter Recruiter podcast and helps organizations learn to navigate the workforce in these turbulent times. She provides insights on how individuals can enter, maneuver through, exit, and potentially re-enter the job market amid uncertainty fueled by economic pressures and trade disputes.
To be fair, companies are dealing with the challenges of the tariffs and other economic upheavals. They’re furiously scrambling to figure out how to maintain business as usual. The phrase “last hired, first fired” seems to be making a comeback. Perhaps more disturbing is how exposed younger workers are in today’s precarious job market. Employers are more sensitive to the fact that the first to go in a layoff tend to be those new to the workforce.
Focusing on in-demand sectors Durham emphasizes that job seekers—especially millennials—should focus on being proactive in their search. Knowing how to market yourself and create skills that people need has a huge impact, she says. She recommends that through networking and staying active in the industry, candidates can better prepare themselves with more opportunities.
The youth demographic experiences distinct challenges in obtaining jobs. Most have fled or changed since companies big and small have rushed to digitize and automate to stay competitive in the face of an uncertain economy. This has resulted in increased competition for roles available, increasing the need for young jobseekers to stand out.
Against the backdrop of these advances, Durham urges flexibility. She encourages prospective workers to look to upskill their competencies and think outside the box to gain employment. This might take the form of internships, volunteer experiences, or even part-time employment that not only builds experience but fosters connections.
Employers need to pay attention to their hiring practices during this period. The approach of retaining experienced workers in favor of hiring new talent may create negative effects on future workforce diversity and innovation. Companies should consider a balanced approach that allows for fresh talent while retaining experienced employees.
