AI Has Shrunk Entry-Level Jobs by a Third

AI Is Transforming the Job Market — And Entry-Level Roles Are the First to Go

In a world where algorithms ace applications and machines answer interview questions, the job market for fresh graduates is changing dramatically.

A recent study by job platform Adzuna shows the number of new entry-level jobs has plummeted by 31.9% since ChatGPT launched in November 2022. Once plentiful roles — internships, apprenticeships, graduate schemes — are quietly being replaced by automation and AI. Today, entry-level roles make up just a quarter of all job listings, a decline of nearly 4% over two years.

The shift isn’t hypothetical. Telecom giant BT plans to replace tens of thousands of roles with AI, including call handling and diagnostics. Meanwhile, leaders from AI firms like Anthropic warn that up to half of entry-level white-collar jobs could disappear in the next five years.

But while the traditional path into work is narrowing, freshers still have powerful ways to stay visible, valuable, and employable.

???? 6 Strategic Ways Freshers Can Thrive in an AI-Altered Job Market

1️⃣ Build hybrid skill sets

Gone are the days when knowing just one thing was enough. Today’s winners blend technical fluency (coding, data analysis, AI tools) with human-centric skills (communication, creativity, critical thinking).

For example, pairing prompt engineering or data visualization with marketing or psychology makes you harder to replace — and more appealing to modern employers.

2️⃣ Craft a personal digital brand

When HR teams sift through hundreds of AI-generated resumes, your authentic online presence becomes your edge.

• Share projects on LinkedIn and GitHub

• Write posts reflecting on your learning journey

• Contribute to industry discussions

In 2025 and beyond, digital visibility isn’t optional — it’s your new résumé.

3️⃣ Prioritize roles requiring critical thinking and empathy

AI excels at repeating tasks and spotting patterns. But it still struggles with nuance, judgement, and emotional intelligence.

Look for roles in strategy, creative content, human resources, marketing, and ethics — areas where fresh ideas and human insight still matter most.

4️⃣ Leverage internships and freelance gigs as launch pads

Full-time entry roles may be scarcer, but micro-internships, freelance projects, and short-term contracts are rising.
These gigs help you:

• Gain hands-on experience

• Build a portfolio

• Network with industry professionals

Think of it as building your own staircase, step by step.

5️⃣ Learn to work with AI — not against it

Treat AI as your teammate, not a rival. Upskill in tools that boost your productivity: ChatGPT, Midjourney, data automation, and content creation tools.

Employers increasingly value candidates who know how to:

• Prompt and guide AI

• Edit and oversee AI output

• Combine machine efficiency with human creativity

6️⃣ Target AI-resilient industries

Some sectors are less exposed to automation, like:

• Skilled trades (plumbing, electrical work)

• Healthcare and social work

• Education and hands-on craftsmanship

Explore how your skills might adapt to these industries or learn adjacent skills to enter them.

???? A New Kind of Career Ladder

The old path — college, internship, permanent job — is fading. But disruption breeds opportunity. Companies may be hiring fewer at the bottom, but they’re watching more closely for:

• Self-starters

• Problem solvers

• Adaptable minds who learn fast

Yes, AI is closing some doors. But for the curious, creative, and resilient, new ones remain wide open — ready to be discovered or even built from scratch.

???? Final thought:
The age of AI is here. But so is the age of adaptable, human-first thinking. If you’re entering the workforce now, your real advantage isn’t fighting AI — it’s learning how to shape it, guide it, and stand out alongside it.