Entry-Level Workers Struggling in Job Market, Glassdoor Report Says

The job market is presenting challenges, particularly for entry-level workers. According to Glassdoor’s latest report, employee confidence reached its lowest point in May, with only 44.1% of workers reporting a positive outlook for the next six months. The report highlights economic uncertainty, potential tariffs, and rising layoffs as factors contributing to this pessimism.

In May 2025, job cuts in the U.S. increased by 47% from the previous year, with 93,816 layoffs compared to 63,816 in May 2024. While the U.S. added 139,000 jobs, slightly down from the 147,000 added in April, the overall job market remains difficult for many jobseekers, especially entry-level workers.

Entry-level employees, in particular, are feeling the strain, with their confidence levels hitting a record low since 2016. Katherine Diep, a 21-year-old recent graduate from the University of California Irvine, shared her frustration with the job search process. Despite applying to over 200 jobs in events marketing, she has yet to secure any position.

The tough job market means that many employers are hesitant to create new roles, and the competition is fierce, making it difficult for young graduates to get their careers started. According to Glassdoor’s lead economist, Daniel Zhao, the current hiring environment makes it hard for entry-level workers to climb the career ladder.

For those who have secured jobs, the opportunities for growth appear limited. Zhao noted that the lack of new hires and fewer promotion opportunities means employees have less leverage to advance within their current roles. Furthermore, layoffs have caused more experienced workers to seek lower-level positions, increasing competition at the bottom of the career ladder.

Young workers, in particular, need clear paths for growth in their careers, Zhao added. The uncertainty surrounding career advancement weighs heavily on their confidence.

Despite facing rejection and uncertainty, some entry-level workers remain hopeful. Ngina Valdez, 22, a recent graduate from Syracuse University, has applied to numerous journalism and computer science jobs. Though she’s faced some setbacks, she remains motivated and adapts her approach to improve her chances.

Valdez recently updated her website, which renewed her excitement and enthusiasm for applying to more jobs. “Once a month or so I’ll break down just because I haven’t gotten anything,” she said. “But the 29 other days in the month, I am really motivated.”