Searching for Jobs, Gen Z Feels Like It’s Staring Into ‘the Void’
Hundreds of applications later, even being rejected by an actual human being counts as a victory.

TL;DR
- Gen Z job seekers describe a process that is lonely, opaque, and impersonal, with many applications feeling like they are sent into "the void."
- The rise of AI in hiring, including AI chatbots and automated screening systems, makes it difficult for applicants to connect with human recruiters.
- Job seekers are encountering "ghost jobs" (roles already filled or non-existent) and one-way video interviews, adding to their frustration.
- Many young graduates are underemployed, taking jobs below their qualification level due to the difficulty in finding suitable work.
- The impersonal and often fruitless job search is contributing to a sense of alienation and disaffection among Gen Z towards the political establishment.
- Some job seekers are using AI tools to help write their resumes and cover letters to navigate the automated hiring systems.