Graduates 'Expired' Early? Vietnam's Youth Flock to Short-Term Income Jobs

A significant paradox is emerging in Vietnam's labor market: while businesses are struggling to find workers, especially young people, there's a rush towards jobs offering immediate income, such as ride-hailing and delivery services. Many young Vietnamese graduates are opting for these "instant" jobs, despite possessing university degrees. While these professions are not inherently bad and honest work deserves respect, they are often not the best long-term career choices, according to reports. Numerous companies, particularly in sales and other performance-based roles, are finding it extremely difficult to recruit. They seek not necessarily high qualifications but a willingness to learn and grow. Meanwhile, in areas like Trảng Bom in Đồng Nai province, large factories operate 24/7 with modern production lines, yet still face labor shortages across various positions. The allure of daily earnings seems to outweigh the pursuit of stable, skilled employment for many young individuals. These jobs are described as "instant noodle" work – providing income today, but often only enough for immediate expenses. While taking such jobs temporarily to overcome financial hardship is understandable, many young people appear to be viewing them as their permanent career path. Continuing in ride-hailing or delivery for three, five, or even ten years can come at a considerable cost. This includes the toll on physical health from intense work, limited potential for significant savings, and a lack of transferable skills for future career advancement. Eventually, declining health may make these jobs unsustainable. A concerning trend is the influence of social media on some young people's expectations regarding workplace conditions, benefits, and salaries. While these demands are not inherently wrong, they are often unrealistic without corresponding skills and experience. Faced with companies unable to immediately meet such high expectations, many opt for more accessible service jobs, potentially sacrificing opportunities for long-term career development. If a large segment of the youth continues to prioritize short-term gains, Vietnam risks a severe shortage of skilled and ambitious workers. Authorities and society at large need to provide clearer guidance, emphasizing the importance of building sustainable careers that offer long-term value to individuals and the nation, rather than solely focusing on quick income. Source: VnExpress