What's happened
As of June 2025, job seekers in the US face a challenging market, with many resorting to multiple jobs or returning to previous roles. The rise of 'polyworking' reflects economic pressures, while personal stories highlight the struggles of individuals like Ferraro, who navigates a competitive landscape after pursuing higher education.
What's behind the headline?
Economic Pressures Driving Polyworking
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Job Market Dynamics: The current job market is characterized by a hiring slowdown, with businesses hiring at nearly the lowest rate since 2013. Despite a low unemployment rate, many job seekers are struggling to find suitable positions.
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Polyworking as a Necessity: The term 'polyworking' has gained traction as more individuals take on multiple jobs to meet financial needs. This trend is not merely a lifestyle choice but often a necessity driven by economic hardship.
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Impact on Workers: Many workers, like Ferraro, are finding themselves in a cycle of underemployment, where their qualifications do not match available job opportunities. This can lead to frustration and a sense of expendability in the workforce.
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Future Outlook: As economic conditions remain uncertain, the trend of polyworking is likely to continue. Workers may need to adapt to this new reality, balancing multiple roles while seeking stability in their careers.
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, the rise of polyworking reflects a broader trend where 'the way the economy’s going, you can’t live off of one job, even two jobs sometimes.' This sentiment is echoed by individuals like Ferraro, who, despite his qualifications, has returned to trucking due to a lack of opportunities in his desired field. Business Insider UK highlights personal stories of job seekers navigating this challenging landscape, emphasizing the emotional toll of underemployment and the need for adaptability in today's job market. The contrast between the optimism of polyworking as a means of reclaiming one's career and the harsh realities of economic necessity is a central theme in these discussions.
How we got here
The job market has been tightening since late 2023, with hiring rates dropping to near historic lows. Economic pressures, including inflation and rising living costs, have led many workers to seek additional income through multiple jobs, a trend termed 'polyworking.' This shift has been exacerbated by layoffs and a competitive job landscape, particularly for recent graduates.
Go deeper
- What is polyworking and why is it on the rise?
- How are recent graduates coping with the job market?
- What can job seekers do to improve their chances?
Common question
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What Challenges Are Recent Graduates Facing in Today's Job Market?
As of June 2025, recent graduates are navigating a challenging job market characterized by high competition and economic pressures. Many are adapting by taking on multiple jobs or returning to previous roles, a trend known as 'polyworking.' This page explores the current landscape for new graduates and answers common questions about their experiences and strategies.
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What is Polyworking and Why is it Becoming Popular?
As the job market continues to evolve, many individuals are turning to polyworking as a solution to economic pressures and job instability. This trend reflects a significant shift in how people approach their careers, leading to a rise in the number of professionals juggling multiple jobs. Below, we explore common questions surrounding polyworking and its implications in today's economy.
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