Cisco exec says the slowdown in entry-level hiring is a 'total blip' and won't last

"She said Cisco understands the importance of attracting the next generation of talent and that recent grads have experiences, skills, and lessons that are applicable in the workplace. Katsoudas' prediction for the future of entry-level workers comes as tech-industry leaders, like Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, have warned that entry-level white-collar jobs will be slashed in half in the next five years. Geoffrey Hinton, known as the "Godfather of AI," has similarly said that AI will replace anyone doing "mundane intellectual labor," specifically calling out paralegals and call-center workers."

"Recent data also casts a dark cloud on the prospects for entry-level workers. A Stanford study published in August found that employment for 22-25-year-olds in the most AI-exposed occupations have seen a 13% relative decline. Handshake similarly reported that tech internship postings were down 30% since 2023."

Entry-level hiring has softened recently but is characterized as a temporary "blip" by Cisco leadership, with expectations that demand for young talent will recover. Cisco emphasizes attracting recent graduates who bring relevant experiences, skills, and lessons for the workplace. AI-driven reshuffling of roles is contributing to hiring hesitation and uncertainty across companies. Some industry leaders predict steep cuts to entry-level white-collar jobs, and studies show measurable declines: a Stanford study found a 13% relative employment decline for 22-25-year-olds in AI-exposed occupations, while Handshake reported a 30% drop in tech internship postings. Other firms are expanding internship programs, signaling mixed market dynamics.

Read at Business Insider