For years, Gen Z has been stereotyped as lazy, unable to handle pressure, or wanting everything immediately. But every time I think about it, I realize something important: it’s not our generation that’s failing — it’s the job market system that isn’t ready for us.

You send out dozens of resumes and get no response. You attend interviews, only to be rejected because they expect “2–3 years of experience” even for entry-level positions. No matter how ready you are, the doors remain closed. And when artificial intelligence starts replacing entry-level tasks, it feels like there’s no space for you at all.

Let’s be honest: we’re a generation that’s ready, but the market is not.

The Self-Blame Trap 🌀

Sometimes, we convince ourselves that “we can’t handle it,” that “we’re not ready,” or that we should know everything beforehand. The truth is far more complex. The system doesn’t provide opportunities to learn on the job, nor space to make mistakes.

What happens in Greece — and in many other job markets, is that entry-level roles now require 2–3 years of experience. Gen Z is left trying to prove its value before it’s even given the chance.

What I’m Learning Through This 🌱

As I search for jobs myself, particularly in NGOs or remote positions, I clearly see what it means to be a young professional today. It’s exhausting, but also enlightening. Every rejection or delay helps me understand the problems in the system and how I can adapt without losing myself.

As I’ve written in Sousanna’s Journal, my goal isn’t just to get a job. I want to create space for others, foster inclusion, growth, and safety at work, because I’ve seen what it’s like when the system offers none of these.

A Message to Young Professionals 🫶

If you’re part of Gen Z and feel discouraged, remember: it’s not your fault. The system needs to adapt. Until then, we can find ways to create opportunities, learn, support each other, and build communities that work.

Through my blog, I try to do exactly that: speak openly, share experience,and inspire those in the same situation.

✨ So, my fellow Gen Z or anyone navigating this crazy labor market, we’re ready, the system is not. Let’s keep learning, sharing, and building something better.