In recent years, job ads for entry-level positions—those intended for candidates with little or no work experience—have increasingly started to look like they are written for superheroes, not for young people who are just beginning their careers.
3 years of experience… for an entry-level role?
How many times have you come across a job ad asking for at least 2–3 years of work experience for a junior role? The irony is obvious—how is someone supposed to gain experience if no one gives them a chance without it? This creates a closed circle that discourages many young people.
University degree + 5 software skills + 3 languages = entry-level?
In an attempt to find “all-in-one” candidates, many companies set unrealistic requirements:
• Completed university studies (with excellent results);
• Knowledge of specific software or tools;
• Excellent English, plus another foreign language;
• Teamwork, but also independence;
• Preferably creative, but also highly analytical.
The result? A position that should be for beginners ends up looking like a role for an experienced professional with several years of work experience.
Why is this happening?
• Companies hope to get “more for less,” so they set high standards for low-paid positions;
• Automated screening systems filter candidates based on keywords, so job ads are overloaded with requirements for “better precision”;
• A lack of clear role definitions, so companies include everything that could possibly fit into the description.
Consequences of unrealistic job ads
• Loss of talent – many capable young people give up before even applying;
• Frustration and anxiety among those trying to meet impossible criteria;
• A major mismatch between salary and expectations – companies ask for a lot while offering very little.
What can companies do?
• Reassess the skills that are truly needed for entry-level roles;
• Offer onboarding programs and training for new employees;
• Be transparent about what is “preferred” and what is “required.”
Advice for job seekers:
If you meet 60–70% of the requirements—apply! Many companies are flexible when they find someone with the right attitude and potential.