Why Are There No Entry-Level Jobs?

Many people, particularly recent graduates, feel it’s hard to get an entry-level job. Furthermore, some individuals believe that these jobs aren’t available altogether.


However, entry-level jobs are accessible within the job market and you can get one if you play your cards right.

Why is it so Hard to Get an Entry-Level Job? 

Getting an entry-level job can be easy at times yet so hard when you need it the most. You hand in your resume to many places… then nothing. Not only is it annoying, but it also takes time, energy, and has costs associated with the process.


So why is it so hard to get an entry-level job? There are a few reasons, one of which may be just bad timing for you. Other common reasons are that you may not be looking in the correct spots, or you just may be missing the skills or a basic requirement that these places are looking for.


However, the argument has been made that there is a lack of entry-level jobs available. Let’s have a look at that.

The Lack of Entry-level Jobs

People believe it is currently harder to get an entry-level job than in the past. Here are 3 reasons as to why there may be a lack of entry-level jobs.

1. Some entry-level jobs require you to have work experience

Often companies would train people once they hired them at an entry-level. However, changes in the workplace’s structure and function led many companies to stop investing in workforce training. Instead, firms opted to start hiring people with some work experience, even in entry-level positions.

2. Horizontal mobility within the job market

Horizontal mobility in the job market refers to moving from one job to another within the same level but at different companies. In contrast, vertical mobility refers to getting a promotion or demotion at your current job level.

Horizontal mobility at the entry-level means that firms can hire employees who already have years of experience at that level. This process negatively affects graduates who are joining the job market.

3. Many offices are becoming automated

Tasks such as conducting product research, developing presentations, and procuring supplies that required a whole team to complete can now be done with a few clicks. Office automation allows a company to minimize manual effort while also cutting down on paychecks. Therefore, modern tools and software have drastically reduced the demand for entry-level workers.

How to Get an Entry-level Job

Although you may feel disheartened when searching for entry-level jobs, staying focused, setting some goals, and making the best use of your strengths and opportunities can help you get employed. Here are four ways of ensuring you get entry-level employment.

1. Ensure you have an updated, accurate, and error-free resume

Spelling mistakes, a lack of consistency, poor flow, and incorrect formatting can negatively impact how employers see your job application. When applying for an entry-level job, always ensure you write your resume well and update any new skills or competencies you have.  

2. Build your resume by volunteering and undertaking internships

Volunteer and internship work allows you to gain work experience and skills that are beneficial to your resume. Also, you’ll reduce your employment gaps. When you stay unemployed for too long, a potential employer may interpret it as a lack of initiative.


Volunteering and internship will also allow you to network with like-minded people and even get some good references. This way, you can improve your resume’s credibility in the eyes of an employer.  

3. Develop a positive digital presence

Employers tend to check your online presence to learn more about your professional and personal life in this digital era. Ensuring you have a positive digital footprint helps in boosting your chances of gaining employment.


So, ensure you have an updated LinkedIn profile that supports your resume. Also, make sure you moderate any content or information you post/share online and avoid inappropriate/ offensive content.

4. Develop a network of people

When it comes to looking for work, the more people you know the better off you are. Company owners and anybody that needs help are always looking for somebody that will work hard and be dependable. Hiring somebody they know, or somebody that’s referred to them eliminates some of the fear about who they will hire.


Introduce yourself to people, tell people what you are looking for, always keep the contact information of people you meet, and always bring your “A” game. You never know when that one “hello” may be the surprise interview for your next job.

5. If all fails, re-evaluate what’s wrong and rectify it

Sometimes you might find you’re actively applying for entry-level opportunities that match your skillset, yet you’re not getting employed. If this is the case, kindly analyze what the issue may be and rectify it.  

You might find that you have poor interviewing skills, too much experience, or a lack of passion. By working on such areas and improving on them, you can show a potential employer you’re ready for work.

So, Why are there No Entry-level Jobs?

According to the BBC, it is becoming increasingly challenging for inexperienced workers to get entry-level jobs. However, somewhere out there these jobs still exist, you’ll just need to work hard to enhance your skills and gain experience. In that case, it is possible to get employment even if you’re a recent graduate. 

By: Robert Puharich | November 20, 2021 |