KUALA LUMPUR – A number of Malaysians have pointed out that entry-level job requirements have become increasingly demanding over the past decade, as employers are seen to be requiring more extensive prior experience for fresh hires.
A LinkedIn post that went viral a month ago, authored by data analyst Tabassum Khatoon, highlighted a global trend in which entry-level job postings often seek candidates with over five years of experience.
Malaysians, ranging in age from 20 to 40, shared their experiences of hunting for their first full-time jobs after completing university.
Ashly Tan, 23, currently juggling a contract job in education and freelancing in the media, expressed her frustration on the issue.
“Entry-level jobs shouldn’t demand prior work experience and should cater to students, fresh graduates or career changers. However, I consistently encounter job listings requiring three or more years of experience.
“These same jobs expect skills unrelated to my field of study, offer meagre salaries, and don’t compensate for overtime. I truly empathise with recent graduates who struggle after a year of leaving university, as I find myself in the same predicament.”
Vivienne Foo, 35, working in the creative industry with 14 years of experience, recalled a different landscape.
“When I first graduated, entry-level job requirements were minimal. Most companies welcomed and trained fresh graduates with good attitudes or decent portfolios, even those transitioning between career paths. I believe that today, entry-level positions are generally harder to secure due to increased competition, heightened employer expectations and economic conditions.”
She encouraged fresh graduates to remain open to diverse opportunities and maintain persistence in their job search.
Edgar Sebastian, 27, employed in retail, shared his perspective: “I’ve noticed job postings requesting two or more years of experience, mainly from agencies offering junior executive roles, which often come with an overwhelming lack of work-life balance.
“It’s unfair for medium to large corporations to disregard fresh graduates. It used to be easier to land a job with good results, but now the focus is on extracurricular activities. Even if you excel in various areas, work experience remains a key factor.”
Edwin Pio Rufus, in his early 40s, part of the management team in the education industry, believes that advancements in technology and information accessibility should make it easier to secure entry-level jobs today.
“It took me three months after graduation to find my first job, which required passing a skill test on my third attempt.
“Struggling fresh graduates should embrace challenges and step out of their comfort zones. Seeking internships or part-time positions in their field of study can provide valuable experience and industry connections,” he advised.
Annur Khairul, in her early 20s and working in the communications industry, underscored the challenges of landing a job with specific requirements.
“Several entry-level job postings requested one to two years of experience. Finding a job wasn’t difficult once I knew what I wanted. However, it’s important to note that fresh graduates in our country are often underpaid.
“Degree holders should receive a minimum salary of RM2,800 to RM3,500, but I was offered RM1,800, with the requirement of two years of software skills experience. Employers now demand top-notch skills and work ethic but offer inadequate compensation.”
Abdul Rahim, nearing 30, employed in goods logistics and distribution, believes that companies often overlook the needs of fresh graduates:
“If employers require more experience, they should create job openings with higher pay grades. There’s a lack of companies that consider providing a fulfilling experience for fresh graduates, keeping them busy without room to learn.”
It took two months after graduation before a recruiter approached him for a job, highlighting the scarcity of job opportunities in relevant industries according to university degrees.
According to the Human Resources Ministry, over 300,000 Malaysian youths are currently unemployed, contributing to a global issue of high youth unemployment rates. In the second quarter of 2023, the unemployment rate for youths aged 15 to 24 stood at 10.7%, affecting 307,700 individuals.
Despite the seemingly high percentage, Malaysia’s overall unemployment rate is 3.5%, still within the threshold of full employment, which is defined as an unemployment rate of less than 4%. – October 18, 2023