Graduates who completed their studies between 2019 and 2022 are facing significant challenges in the professional job market.
A survey conducted by recruitment firm Robert Walters, polling 1,300 UK graduates, reveals that this group feels overlooked by employers and is struggling with career development, job satisfaction and financial stability.
The survey found that 72% of these ‘pandemic graduates’ believe they are being ignored by employers in favour of more recent graduates or experienced professionals. Only 20% report feeling satisfied in their current roles, while 71% feel behind in their careers compared to their peers. Limited job opportunities, increased competition and high employer expectations have contributed to their difficulties, with 38% citing job shortages as their main challenge.
Many pandemic graduates believe their professional development has been negatively affected by graduating during a period of economic uncertainty and remote working. Key areas of concern include difficulties in developing technical skills (31%), learning soft skills (26%) and gaining experience through in-office learning (22%). Nearly a third of respondents feel that their career progression has been directly impacted by graduating in this period.
Decline of Traditional Graduate Schemes
Opportunities for structured career entry routes have declined. The Big Four firms – KPMG, PwC, Deloitte and EY – reduced their graduate scheme intake last year as part of wider cost-cutting measures. This has led to intense competition, with the Institute for Student Employers reporting that the average employer now receives 140 applications per graduate role.
The financial prospects for graduates have also declined. According to the most recent government figures, the median graduate salary is now £26,000, a drop of £500 from 2022.
The higher education sector is also facing financial strain. In 2024, the government pledged to cut ‘rip-off’ degrees and encourage apprenticeships. More recently, Cardiff University announced plans to cut 400 jobs and remove subjects such as nursing and music to reduce costs. The Office for Students has warned that without major reforms, three-quarters of universities could be operating at a loss by 2025.
Navigating the Job Market
Habiba Khatoon, Director at Robert Walters Midlands, highlighted the challenges pandemic graduates face, including low pay, reduced graduate intakes and questions over the value of their degrees. She noted that many who found jobs entered a remote or hybrid work environment, missing out on essential office-based experience and networking opportunities.
Khatoon advised graduates to take a long-term view of their careers, considering new industries and sectors where they may find unexpected opportunities. She encouraged them not to compare their career progress with others, stating that sidesteps and alternative career paths could still lead to successful outcomes.
