If you’ve been job hunting recently—especially for your first “proper” role—you might’ve noticed something worrying: entry-level jobs are harder to come by. And you’re not imagining it.
According to a new report by Adzuna, entry-level roles in the UK have dropped by nearly a third since the end of 2022. That’s a big shift—and it’s got a lot of people asking questions about what’s really going on.
What’s Actually Happening?
Since tools like ChatGPT hit the scene, businesses have been rethinking how they get things done. Routine tasks that used to be passed on to junior team members—data entry, first-line customer support, even basic coding—are now being handled by AI. And that’s having a knock-on effect on entry-level hiring.
In fact, in May 2025, the number of entry-level roles on offer dropped to just over 214,000. Big employers, like the Big Four, are even scaling back their grad schemes.
So, Is AI the Villain Here?
Not exactly. AI is a tool—it’s not out to steal anyone’s job. But it is changing the game. Companies are chasing efficiency, and sometimes that means trimming the roles that used to be seen as stepping stones.
The good news? There’s still loads of value in what real, live humans bring to the table. Creativity, emotional intelligence, teamwork—these aren’t things an algorithm can replicate.
What Employers Can Do Right Now
At Arden Personnel, we think this is the perfect time to rethink what “entry-level” really means. A few ideas:
- Design roles that build potential, not just fill gaps. Let your junior hires learn and grow into future stars.
- Offer proper training and mentoring instead of expecting new hires to come fully formed.
- Keep it human—yes, even if you’re using AI for some parts of the process. Make sure you’re still hiring for values, curiosity, and potential.
Tips for Job Seekers
If you’re starting out, it’s easy to feel discouraged. But don’t write yourself off just yet:
- Show you get tech. You don’t have to be a coder, but understanding AI and how it fits into the modern workplace is a big plus.
- Talk up your people skills. Collaboration, empathy, initiative—these are what make you stand out.
- Be flexible. Consider SMEs or startups that value your mindset more than your years of experience (we work with loads of them!).
Final Thoughts
Yes, things are shifting—but that doesn’t mean doors are closed. The world of work is evolving, and so are we. At Arden Personnel, we’re here to help both employers and candidates figure it out, one step at a time.
Need a hand with your CV or not sure how to attract the right candidates in this new landscape? Let’s have a chat.
Call us now on 01789 532220/01527 911700 or email admin@ardenpersonnel.co.uk