Discrepancy Between Youth's Skills and Job Market Requirements Leaves Millions of Indonesian Youth Unemployed
In the town of Sukabumi, Indonesia, a determined young woman named Icha Nur Septiani fought against the odds to land her dream job. Armed with an electrical engineering diploma from Bandung State Polytechnic, she embodied the spirit of the countless graduates nationwide who are eager to make their mark in the job market.
However, things didn't go as smoothly as she had hoped. For about eight arduous months, Icha's inbox was filled with rejection letters, and her hopes began to fade. It wasn't the triumphant beginning she had envisioned for herself after graduation in 2023.
"I blindly applied to any job listing that matched my qualifications," she admit, "Sending out three to four hours a day on my laptop became the norm." But despite her diligence, she struggled to find success.
Icha's experience is not unique. The job market for fresh graduates can be both brutal and unforgiving, with hundreds of applicants vying for a single opening. Career.io data shows that every job posting attracts around 118 job seekers, leading to a disheartening rejection for most applicants. And the job market hasn't been particularly friendly since 2022, with hiring rates for new grads on a steady decline.
Yet, Icha refused to be discouraged. She adapted, converting her setbacks into lessons. Her determination earned her a coveted spot as a customer service expert at a major ride-hailing company.
If you too find yourself lost in the sea of job applications, take heart. There are strategies to help you stand out from the crowd:
- Begin your job search early. Start networking with professionals in your desired field long before graduation. The more time you have, the more prepared you'll be for what lies ahead.
- Be adaptable and flexible. Don't limit yourself to a single job role or industry. Consider internships or entry-level position to gain valuable experience and start building a professional portfolio.
- Focus on developing both soft and technical skills. Employers love graduates who can collaborate effectively and think creatively. Becoming adept at the latest software and technologies can give you an edge in the competitive job market.
- Cultivate a strong online presence. A polished LinkedIn profile can help you connect with potential employers and showcase your abilities.
- Stay informed. Keep track of industry developments and trends to stay competitive.
By embracing these strategies, you too can turn the odds in your favor and find the success you deserve in the job market.
In her pursuit of a career, Icha Nur Septiani, a determined electrical engineering graduate, turned to online resources for help, focusing on skills training and job-search platforms like education-and-self-development and career-development websites to enhance her chances. Despite the competitive job market, especially since 2022, Icha's persistence paid off, and she managed to land a job as a customer service expert at a major ride-hailing company, making her one of the top stories of job-search triumph in Sukabumi, Indonesia.
