The UK job market is shifting — and not in ways that make it easier for new graduates or job seekers.
A tough environment for graduates
For new graduates, 2025 has brought one of the most challenging job markets in years.
- Only 27% secure roles by February, even after applying to 20+ jobs on average.
- Entry-level hiring is shrinking in key sectors like HR, marketing, and accounting.
The message is clear: the traditional graduate path is no longer guaranteed.
But I believe graduate and entry-level hiring isn’t disappearing, it’s evolving.
Many of the “basic duties” once handled by juniors or graduates can now be done by AI. That means new starters are likely to come in above that level, contributing at a higher standard from day one.
This could actually be beneficial for businesses; more efficiency, huge cost savings, and graduates getting real responsibility faster.
The challenge is how quickly businesses, education, and graduates themselves can adapt to this new reality.
The wider slowdown
It’s not just graduates feeling the pinch.
📉 UK vacancy rates have now dropped for 37 consecutive quarters.
🧑🏽💻 Job openings are down 5.8% in mid-2025, sitting at 718,000.
🤝 The unemployment-to-vacancy ratio has risen to 2.3, showing how much harder it is to secure a role.
A slower market means more competition for every role. For job seekers, perseverance and strategy have never mattered more.
5 tips for job seekers in 2025
From working with businesses and candidates every day, here are my top 5 recommendations:
- Persevere. Don’t get disheartened by rejection — resilience is often what separates those who succeed.
- Tailor every application. Take time to really understand the role. Research the company, adapt your CV, and craft a strong intro email (definitely don’t let ChatGPT write it for you!).
- Keep active. While searching, add experience where you can — freelance projects, volunteering, courses, or even attending industry events all help you stand out.
- Network. Building relationships often leads to opportunities that aren’t advertised. Be proactive in reaching out.
- Stay flexible. Be open on salary and role expectations at this stage. Getting a foot on the ladder is often more important than landing the “perfect” role straight away.
Looking ahead
The job market is tough, but it’s also transforming. AI will change the shape of entry-level roles, but it also creates opportunities for businesses and individuals to grow faster.
The key is to approach this moment not with panic, but with preparation. Adaptability, curiosity, and resilience will define those who succeed.
Nick Evans
Co-Founder of Impact Recruitment Group Ltd
👉 I’d love to hear from graduates and job seekers: What challenges are you seeing in the market right now?