At OSA Recruitment, it’s important to us to provide our clients with the most relevant and up-to-date guidance on the Guernsey market. To gather more insights, our latest survey was aimed at students and early-career professionals aged 16 to 27. Our goal was to understand what truly matters to young islanders as they plan their futures, and how we can better support them along the way.
Guernsey: Stay or go?
One of the most striking findings from our survey was that fewer than half (44%) of respondents plan to stay in Guernsey. 32% said they weren’t sure and 24% said they were leaving the island. For those choosing to leave, the reasons were: high cost of living, desire to travel/live elsewhere and a lack of job opportunities, particularly in creative or specialist sectors.
Yet, for those choosing to stay, family and friendships are key drivers behind the decision to remain on the island.
University isn’t for everyone
While 61% are either planning to attend university, are currently studying or have already completed their studies at university, a significant 32% said they have no intention of pursuing higher education. This shift reflects a growing desire of alternative pathways into work, such as apprenticeships, direct entry into employment or vocational training.
Among those who do go to university, their chosen subjects span a wide range, from biomedical science to political science, robotics to medieval literature. These diverse ambitions highlight the need for Guernsey’s job market to expand in order to retain such varied talent.
Dream jobs vs. reality
From data scientists to dog walkers, musicians to medical professionals, our respondents shared a rich variety of dream jobs. Many aspire to help others, build businesses or work creatively. Yet only 1 in 4 feel they are on track to achieve their dream job.
What’s holding them back? The biggest barriers cited were lack of local opportunities, unclear career pathways and limited access to mentoring or internships. Some also mentioned a lack of support systems to guide them.
What matters most in a job?
When choosing a job, young people want balance. While 65% say both job role and benefits are equally important, practical concerns like salary (90%), career progression (71%) and workplace culture (55%) remain top priorities.
This generation is looking for more than a pay cheque, they want to feel valued, supported and inspired at work.
What can we do?
• Schools should offer broader advice that includes creative, technical and hands-on careers, not just university and finance.
• Companies must connect with students earlier, offering insight into the real variety of careers available.
• We must develop sectors that match young people’s interests, especially in creative, tech and science-based roles.
• Mentorship, internships and work experience opportunities should be readily available to help bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement.
At OSA, we’re passionate about supporting the next generation of professionals in Guernsey. Whether you’re looking to break into your first job, make a career change or find more meaningful work, we can help.
Our services include tailored career advice, upskilling and reskilling support, guidance on improving your professional brand and access to job opportunities that match your ambitions.
And if you’re an employer looking to attract and retain talent, we’re here to help you become a workplace of choice.
