Youth unemployment is climbing again in Alberta, and for those aged 16–25, landing the right opportunity can feel tougher than ever. The good news? Even in a crowded market, there are ways to stand out — and sometimes it’s less about having the perfect resume and more about how you position yourself. Here’s what employers are really looking for, and how you can give yourself the edge.
1. Think Skills, Not Just Jobs
When employers hire, they’re looking beyond job titles. They want to know what skills you bring to the table — problem-solving, communication, teamwork, reliability. Even if you’ve only worked part-time, volunteered, or done a school project, frame those experiences around the skills you built. This makes you more adaptable and more appealing to a wide range of employers.
Insider Tip: Create a “skills bank” — a list of 6–8 transferable skills you’ve gained from school, work, or volunteering. Be ready to highlight these in your resume, LinkedIn, or interviews.
2. Be Where the Opportunities Are
Not every opening makes it to a job board. Many entry-level and internship roles are filled through referrals, networking, direct outreach, or organizations like CAREERS. That means the best way to compete is to show up where employers are.
Insider Tip: Join local career fairs, industry meetups, or even virtual panels. A short conversation with an employer can put you ahead of dozens of anonymous online applications.
3. Tailor, Don’t Spray
Sending the same resume to 30 employers rarely works. Employers can tell when your application is generic. Instead, focus on fewer applications but customize them. Highlight why you’re interested in that role and how your skills align with their needs.
Insider Tip: Spend an extra 10 minutes aligning your resume keywords with the job posting. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) often filter applications — customizing could mean your resume makes it to human eyes.
4. Show You’re Invested in Growth
Employers know early-career workers won’t have decades of experience — but they want to see curiosity and a willingness to learn. Showing that you’ve taken a free course, watched an industry webinar, or earned a micro-credential tells employers you’re motivated and adaptable.
Insider Tip: Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and even industry associations offer free or low-cost training. Adding “in progress” learning to your resume signals initiative.
5. Follow Up and Stand Out
One of the simplest ways to differentiate yourself is often overlooked: follow up. A short thank-you email or LinkedIn message after an interview can make you memorable. It shows professionalism and initiative — two qualities employers value highly.
Final Thought
Yes, youth unemployment is rising, but Alberta is still full of opportunity. The key is to shift from a “job seeker” mindset to a “career builder” mindset. Every step you take — networking, learning, tailoring applications — adds momentum.
And remember: you’re not alone. CAREERS continues to connect young talent with employers across Alberta. Stay in touch, keep building your skills, and when the time is right, you might even find yourself offering opportunities to the next generation.
