Decreasing job opportunities for newcomers, however, these sectors offer promising career paths:
Struggles Facing Young Job Seekers in Germany, According to Stepstone Analysis
A new study by recruitment platform Stepstone has revealed that entering the job market has become significantly more challenging for young people in Germany. The analysis, which spans from January 2020 to April 2025, reveals several key factors contributing to this difficulty.
Fewer Entry-Level Roles
One of the most significant issues is the decline in entry-level job postings. By the first quarter of 2025, the share of entry-level positions was 45% below the five-year average, making fewer opportunities available for young job seekers compared to previous years.
Longer and More Demanding Application Processes
The study also suggests that application procedures have become more complex and time-consuming. University graduates, on average, need to send an astonishing 40 applications to secure an interview, compared to around 26 for peers who have completed vocational training.
Shift in Job Availability
There is also a shift in job availability. Fewer entry-level jobs are available in traditional office roles, while jobs in people-facing professions, such as education and trade, have increased. This shift may require different skills or experience levels that young applicants may lack.
Economic Context and Labor Market Dynamics
The ongoing period of economic weakness, despite a persistent shortage of skilled workers, complicates hiring. Demographic changes will tighten the labor market further, intensifying competition.
Educational Background Effect
The study also finds that university graduates tend to send significantly more applications than those with vocational training, which could indicate greater job market challenges or mismatches for university graduates.
Sector-Specific Trends
The trade sector has seen a 52% increase in entry-level positions since 2022, while the number of entry-level positions in sales has decreased by 56% during the same period. The education sector has experienced a 96% increase in entry-level positions since 2022, but the number of entry-level positions in human resources has decreased by 50%.
Advice for Young Applicants
Labor market expert Tobias Zimmermann advises young applicants not to give up, despite the challenges in the job market. He emphasizes that youth unemployment in Germany remains low compared to other European countries.
The recruitment platform Stepstone's study, titled "Hiring Efficiency," indicates that graduates are currently finding it much harder to find a job after their studies. Despite spending an average of seven hours on their applications, university graduates receive only three to four interview invitations on average.
Read also:
- Rapid Expansion Expected in Gesture-Controlled Wearables Sector at a Rate of 14.4%
- Trump's Successful Streak: President Trump Delivers on His Campaign Pledges, Reaching 200 Days in Office
- El-Fasher Faces Imminent Food Emergency amidPersisting Conflict - Plea for Immediate Action Issued
- Ohio River Water Level Dispute Triggers Political and Public Discourse
