In today’s competitive job market, finding employment is a challenge, especially for Gen Z graduates. Kinjil Mathur, Squarespace’s Chief Marketing Officer, acknowledges this struggle, drawing from her own experiences two decades ago. Mathur, who has worked in both the fashion and tech industries, understands the difficulties faced by young professionals entering the workforce. She started her career during a time when landing a job required creativity and initiative.
Mathur’s journey began with a finance degree in 2000. She wasn’t expecting a job right away and felt anxious about her future. To gain experience, she aggressively pursued internships, even offering to work for free. This proactive approach led to her first internship at Travelocity, a valuable experience that significantly boosted her resume.
Mathur’s internship experience provided a crucial stepping stone for her career. It helped her land another internship the following summer. Her willingness to work hard and her insights into the industry helped her stand out among other candidates. Mathur’s dedication ultimately led to a full-time position as a technology consultant at Protiviti, a global consultancy firm. Despite her early success, Mathur recognizes that navigating the job market in your 20s can be challenging.
The experiences of both Mathur and other young professionals like Ashleigh Spiliopoulou highlight the importance of proactive approaches. Spiliopoulou secured a job at Emerge, her dream employer, through a unique cold email approach. She emphasizes the value of being creative and making an effort to stand out.
Mathur stresses the importance of hustle and flexibility for young job seekers. She advises against being too selective in the initial stages of their career, focusing instead on gaining experience. Mathur encourages Gen Z to show their willingness to work, even if it means taking on unpaid internships or working unconventional hours. She believes that this dedication will pay off in the long run, creating opportunities for future success.
Mathur’s advice serves as a reminder that entering the job market requires a proactive and flexible approach. Hustle, creativity, and a willingness to learn are essential ingredients for success in a competitive landscape. By embracing these principles, Gen Z graduates can navigate the challenges of finding employment and build promising careers.
