The job market feels different these days, and for many young people in Toronto, that difference translates to frustration and uncertainty. A recent employment fair in Oakwood Village underscored a growing anxiety: even with qualifications and a willingness to work, finding stable employment is proving increasingly difficult. “You think, oh, you put your resume out there, you take initiative and make yourself seem like a good candidate, you’ll receive hired… In the last couple of years it’s taken a 180,” said Micah Goldsilver, a job seeker at the fair. This sentiment reflects a broader trend of rising youth unemployment and a competitive landscape where, as Goldsilver put it, “There will be 20 other people just like you, lining up to get that same job.”
The challenges facing Toronto’s young workforce are mirrored in national statistics. Statistics Canada reported a loss of 84,000 jobs across the country in February, marking one of the most significant monthly declines in years, excluding the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Youth unemployment, specifically, rose to over 14 per cent, with Ontario experiencing a rate more than two percentage points higher than the national average. This disproportionate impact on young workers is raising concerns about long-term economic consequences and the potential for a lost generation.
The Shifting Demands of Entry-Level Positions
The issue isn’t simply a lack of jobs, but a change in the requirements for even entry-level positions. Employers are increasingly seeking candidates with experience, creating a Catch-22 for those just starting their careers. Rafael Gomez, director of the Centre for Industrial Relations and Human Resources at the University of Toronto and the CIBC chair of youth employment, explains that this dynamic is partly due to a slowing economy. “What happens is entry-level jobs that normally go to youth who don’t have experience—guess what? You hire someone now with experience. Why? Because they’re unemployed too,” he said. The pandemic exacerbated this problem, as many young people were unable to gain crucial work experience during lockdowns and restrictions.
The NIA Centre for the Arts, which hosted the recent job fair in Oakwood Village, is acutely aware of these challenges. Alicia Hall, the centre’s executive director, noted the growing insecurity among young people. “They’re feeling really insecure,” Hall said. “Their finances, their financial outlook as well as their outlook about the future. They don’t necessarily feel sure that they’re going to be able to afford… the lifestyle that their parents have been able to afford.” The rising cost of living in Toronto further intensifies these anxieties, making the search for stable employment even more critical.
The Impact of Economic Shifts and Pandemic Fallout
Beyond the immediate challenges of gaining experience, broader economic factors are contributing to the difficulties faced by young job seekers. Gomez points to the influx of temporary foreign workers following the pandemic as a contributing factor. “Instead of allowing firms to improve the quality of jobs, raise wages and hire youth, we used a stopgap that, really, brought in millions of temporary foreign workers,” he explained. This influx, while intended to address labour shortages, has inadvertently increased competition for entry-level positions.
WATCH | Prime Minister Mark Carney addresses Feb. Job losses:
At a news conference in Norway on Friday, Prime Minister Mark Carney was asked about Statistics Canada’s most recent report indicating that the economy lost 84,000 jobs in February while the unemployment rate edged up to 6.7 per cent.
Navigating the Challenges: Resources and Strategies
Despite the obstacles, resources are available to help young people navigate the job market. Timothy Yang, president and CEO of Toronto-based non-profit Youth Employment Services, emphasizes the importance of proactive engagement. “We see crucial for young people to ‘separate themselves from the pack’ by going into the business and meeting the hiring manager in person,” Yang said. “Even if they say just submit it online, they might remember you. We’ve seen lots of examples where they still hire you on the spot.” He also stresses the importance of maintaining a positive attitude throughout the job search process.
Youth Employment Services and similar organizations offer free services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job search assistance. These resources can provide valuable support and guidance for young people entering or re-entering the workforce. The organization’s website, Youth Employment Services, provides a comprehensive list of programs and services available to job seekers in the Greater Toronto Area.
The long-term economic implications of youth unemployment are significant. As Gomez points out, young people entering the workforce are crucial for stimulating economic growth. “They’re going to be the ones that will buy their first home, buy their first car. All of that stimulates other economic activity,” he said. Delays in entering the workforce can have lasting effects on earning potential and overall economic productivity.
Looking ahead, the Bank of Canada is scheduled to announce its next interest rate decision on April 10th. This decision will likely influence the overall economic outlook and, the job market for young Canadians. Continued monitoring of economic indicators and proactive support for youth employment initiatives will be essential in addressing the challenges facing this vulnerable segment of the workforce.
The situation facing young job seekers in Toronto is complex and requires a multifaceted approach. While individual resilience and resourcefulness are important, systemic solutions are needed to address the underlying economic factors and ensure that young people have the opportunity to build secure and fulfilling careers.
What are your thoughts on the challenges facing young job seekers? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below.
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