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Why is it easy for some people to land a job like it's no problem with no experience and some people can't seem to find a job with experience and references ?
Like tons of my high school friends have jobs but all my college level friends are struggling to find a job- that doesn't make sense to me
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6 answers
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Usually it depends on the number of positions needed to be filled. Likely, high school students can find jobs in retail, servers in restaurants, etc. where college students may be looking to begin a career.
One of the best things you can do, whether a high school or college student is to expand your skills and experiences. One way of doing that is to volunteer for a variety of short-term opportunities.
With every good wish and many blessings,
Karen
One of the best things you can do, whether a high school or college student is to expand your skills and experiences. One way of doing that is to volunteer for a variety of short-term opportunities.
With every good wish and many blessings,
Karen
Updated
Kennie’s Answer
Experience and references are important and can be the difference between people getting selected for a role or not.
Also important is how you perform in the interview - did you show confidence and enthusiasm, connect naturally with the employer, matched exactly with what the company are looking for.
If someone has experience and refences but applied for the wrong type of role, wasn't presenting themselves confidently, or haven't learned how to highlight their strengths, they may struggle.
Soft skills are important, many roles you can learn, but you can't always teach attitude, reliability, communication, work ethic.
I would remember, not getting hired doesn't mean you are not good enough, sometimes another candidate simply had something you did not.
Be confident, keep improving, always moving forward.
Also important is how you perform in the interview - did you show confidence and enthusiasm, connect naturally with the employer, matched exactly with what the company are looking for.
If someone has experience and refences but applied for the wrong type of role, wasn't presenting themselves confidently, or haven't learned how to highlight their strengths, they may struggle.
Soft skills are important, many roles you can learn, but you can't always teach attitude, reliability, communication, work ethic.
I would remember, not getting hired doesn't mean you are not good enough, sometimes another candidate simply had something you did not.
Be confident, keep improving, always moving forward.
Updated
Flower’s Answer
Try not to worry too much about it. High school students and college students are usually looking for very different kinds of jobs. Many high school jobs are part-time or entry-level, so it’s easier to get hired quickly. College students are often aiming for roles related to their major or future career, which naturally takes more time and competition.
Finding a job isn’t about being fast, it’s about finding the right fit. What really matters is the quality of the opportunity—whether it helps you grow, learn useful skills, and build a good career path.
It might feel slow now, but taking a bit more time to choose the right direction can make a big difference later.
Finding a job isn’t about being fast, it’s about finding the right fit. What really matters is the quality of the opportunity—whether it helps you grow, learn useful skills, and build a good career path.
It might feel slow now, but taking a bit more time to choose the right direction can make a big difference later.
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Matt’s Answer
Build relationships in the industry you want to join, as some people there might have useful connections. Remember, attending college doesn't always prepare someone for a job, so seek out internships.
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Zoubaier’s Answer
Along with the necessary skills, what really sets you apart is how you communicate and perform in interviews. Practice and follow good advice. While you can find most information online or through AI, companies want people who can connect and fit in well with their team.
Karen Laidlaw
Executive Development, Program Manager, Talent and Development
3
Answers
Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Many things can affect your ability to get a job, but believing in yourself and staying positive is key. It seems like you might be feeling like luck isn't on your side. Remember, your thoughts can shape your reality.
When I feel this way, I change my mindset by listing my strengths and achievements and keeping that list visible. I also try to learn from successful people by asking them about their secrets. Be open to the idea that your thoughts might be holding you back.
When I feel this way, I change my mindset by listing my strengths and achievements and keeping that list visible. I also try to learn from successful people by asking them about their secrets. Be open to the idea that your thoughts might be holding you back.