How can 'Generation Y' adapt to beat the downturn

Fuelling the ëunemploymentí debate currently monopolising the business community, figures from the Office of National Statistics show that the number of people out of work in the UK has now reached 1.82 million and this is set to rise further.

In the wake of the credit crunch, the finance and business sectors in particular have made significant staff cut backs. Although these sectors are being badly affected, there is some good news for UK job seekers: Gordon Brown has recently announced that 100,000 new jobs are likely to be created in a new public works programme paid for by the government. In addition, 35,000 apprenticeships both in the public and private sectors are to be introduced. In previous years, the public sector may not have been a first choice for jobseekers, particularly Generation Y, but the opportunities available are now becoming increasingly attractive and are providing jobseekers with an array of interesting options.

Current Generation Y graduates and first jobbers - those born between the late 1970ís and 2000 - are being badly affected by staff cut backs. In times of recession the phrase 'last in first out' often rings true for many organisations, and for Generation Y having never experienced a recession the current economic climate may come as a shock.

Jason Greaves, Head of Commercial Staffing at Manpower, comments: ìGeneration Y has been encouraged to believe that years of university study should be enough to secure employment, but in current economic conditions a degree is no longer the meal ticket it used to be. Having traditionally expected a lot from employers, such as an appropriate work / life balance and evidence of a commitment to CSR, the reality of the jobs market will come as a real shock. î


Many businesses have taken the necessary step of re-assessing both current and forecasted staffing levels in the present economic downturn. Research commissioned by the Trade Union Congress has discovered that younger workers are most likely to find themselves jobless. Generation Y is advised, therefore to explore all of the options available if they find themselves in this position. Jobseekers no longer have the luxury of being choosy as more and more it becomes an ëemployers marketí. The good news is that alternatives in the job market landscape are beginning to emerge within the public sector presenting many opportunities. Previously, members of Generation Y may not have considered the public sector, but initiatives such as the Prime Ministerís creation of jobs and apprenticeships with good incentives are becoming an attractive option. Recent findings in The Manpower Employment Outlook Survey highlight that the public sector is reporting positive hiring intentions at the start of 2009. In addition, The Net Employment Outlook for the public sector is 5% against the national average of -2%.

With the turbulent times set to persist, job options are both lessening and changing to keep up with employersí changing needs. Some UK businesses have made high profile and aggressive cuts across their workforce but, as the situation stabilises, temporary roles will increase. Employers are more likely to take a ëwait and seeí approach when hiring permanent staff until such time as the market picks up.

Jason adds: ìPermanent recruitment is a costly process, and the jobs market will be flooded with candidates during early 2009, employers will therefore look for a temporary workforce. For candidates, temporary roles offer many of the same benefits as permanent employment, such as holiday and sick pay, as well as vital exposure to different industry sectors.î

Re-training to maximise job opportunities is advisable to maintain a competitive edge in the jobs market. Employers will look favourably on job seekers who keep their CV up-to-date and use initiative to increase both their skills and on-the-job experience. Sensible employers will see the value of taking on junior members of staff on work experience placements, as there is limited risk and a low level of commitment on their part.

Manpower offers these top tips to young job seekers:-

Temporary work – Temporary work can be a highly lucrative means of employment, and one that offers variety and flexibility to individuals. Temporary workers are also traditionally more appealing to employers during times of recession so job seekers should take advantage of this trend.

Adapt expectations - Try to keep an open mind when applying for jobs and donít limit yourself: jobseekers no longer have the luxury of being choosy as it is very much an ëemployers marketí out there.

Work experience - Consider work experience opportunities as a foot-in-the-door to your chosen industry. It shows an eagerness to succeed and a commitment to learn. You may have to sacrifice a disposable income for the short-term but the long-term benefits will pay you back ten-fold.

Up-skill - Consider retraining so that you maximise your employment options. Many companies such as Manpower offer free training which is an ideal option for those keen to maintain a competitive edge.