A new study shows that Gen Z graduates face a harsher job market than previous generations. Globally and in Thailand, about 58% of graduates in the past year are still seeking their first full-time position, nearly double the rate for earlier cohorts. Only around 12% secure full-time work by graduation, a fraction of prior norms. This trajectory echoes across Thai society, where uncertainty about earnings is rising among young people.
Traditionally, a university degree was seen as a clear path to stable work. In Thailand, families have long valued higher education as protection against unemployment. The latest findings, however, indicate a transformed economy and rapid technological change. Gen Z’s challenge stems from structural shifts, not a lack of ambition.
Several factors shape the current landscape. The digitization of work means artificial intelligence is reshaping many entry-level and professional tasks. Employers increasingly use AI-driven resume screening and chatbots, narrowing opportunities just as the number of graduates rises. Hiring processes are growing more impersonal and competitive, with some firms adopting personality assessments or informal “lunch tests.” In some cases, candidates apply to hundreds or even thousands of openings.
A worrying trend is the rise of NEETs—young people not in education, employment, or training. In the United States, NEETs number about 4.3 million among Gen Z, and the United Kingdom has seen a sharp uptick. Thailand does not publish a precise NEET figure in the same way, but officials indicate a growing share of youth not in work or study. National data show substantial numbers of Thais aged 15–24 in NEET status, with the possibility of rise if the trend continues.
Education systems are under pressure to keep pace with labor-market needs. Leaders note universities are not intentionally failing students, but the system no longer delivers on its implicit promise. In Thailand, officials warn that outdated curricula and limited job-matching services leave graduates ill-prepared for today’s economy.
Job seekers are adapting with creative strategies. Some pursue part-time or hospitality roles while continuing to search, while others explore unconventional routes to gain visibility. Across markets, hopefuls have handed out resumes with donuts, volunteered as conference staff, or pursued freelance work to build portfolios. In Thailand, anecdotal evidence shows many graduates taking on gig work or internships to enter the workforce.
Still, there is optimism amid disruption. Experts advise viewing the first job as a stepping stone rather than a lifelong commitment. A Thai career counselor at a major Bangkok university underscores the importance of real-world experience, even if the first job isn’t perfectly aligned with one’s field. Adaptability and continuous learning have become essential skills.
Thailand’s experience reflects global and domestic factors. The Office of the Civil Service Commission notes high numbers of graduates each year, intensifying competition for limited professional roles. Many Thai companies still rely on personal networks and traditional recruiting, which can disadvantage job seekers from rural areas or less-renowned institutions. A growing mismatch exists between university training and employer needs, with digital literacy, English proficiency, and critical thinking ranked highly by employers but not always reflected in graduates. Recent data from the Ministry of Higher Education show many employers cite a lack of soft skills as a significant hiring barrier.
Looking ahead, global data point to several shifts. Hiring will rely more on automation and AI, calling for new approaches from workers and educators. Soft skills—adaptability, communication, teamwork, and creative problem solving—are harder for machines to replicate and should be prioritized in curricula and career preparation. With long-term lifetime employment fading, Thai youth should prepare for non-linear careers with multiple transitions, freelance work, and portfolio-building experiences. Policymakers, universities, and employers must collaborate on targeted job creation—such as youth-focused incentives, expanded apprenticeships, and stronger career guidance at secondary and tertiary levels.
For Thai families and graduates, the era of guaranteed transitions from university to steady employment is fading. The focus shifts to resilience, networking, and strategic skill-building. Practical steps for Thai graduates include pursuing in-demand fields like healthcare and green energy, strengthening digital and English-language competencies, seeking internships or volunteer work, and expanding professional networks both online and offline.
Ultimately, the study’s message is clear: job-hunting today is a marathon requiring perseverance. Thai institutions and businesses share responsibility to support youth in developing practical skills and pathways to meaningful work.
This article integrates global research with Thai context to reflect local opportunities and challenges in youth employment.