Getting hired in 2026 is all about your 'microcredentials' says CEO of $1.3 billion learning platform-this is what he told Gen Z kids to focus on | Fortune

"It hasn't been the easiest year to land a job, and in 2026, the employment landscape will likely remain just as volatile. Managers will be grappling with how to deploy AI in their businesses and what skills they really need on the team to bring about efficiencies. Companies will also be wrangling with policy headwinds such as tariffs and the normalization of the base rate, as well as how consumer spending will hold up through the rest of the year."

"So far, it's been younger workers who have struggled the most. According to a November note from Oxford Economics, Gen Z job seekers-currently aged 13 to 28-are facing multiple barriers to landing a role. With hiring tracking downward, unemployment has risen particularly fast among those with less experience, so while America's overall unemployment rate has sat around 4%, those in the 16 to 19 age bracket are contending with a 14% rate, while 19 to 24-year-olds average around 9%."

"Enter the trend of "microcredentials," professional certificates that demonstrate a candidate is pursuing additional training or qualifications to support the roles they're applying for. According to $1.3 billion learning platform Coursera, more than 90% of employers would rather hire a candidate with a microcredential on their CV than one without. According to Coursera's CEO, Greg Hart, the most popular programs on the site revolve around technology and, more specifically, AI."

The employment landscape will remain volatile in 2026 as managers decide how to deploy AI and what skills teams need for efficiency. Companies will face policy headwinds such as tariffs, base rate normalization, and uncertain consumer spending. Younger workers are struggling most: Gen Z (ages 13–28) faces multiple barriers, with unemployment about 14% for 16–19-year-olds and about 9% for 19–24-year-olds while overall unemployment is near 4%. Education affects prospects, with college graduates showing slightly lower unemployment (a little over 6%). Employers seek candidates who demonstrate a commitment to learning. Microcredentials are professional certificates that signal additional, role-relevant training, and more than 90% of employers prefer candidates who list microcredentials, with technology and AI programs especially popular.

Read at Fortune