Managers Prioritize Experience Over Junior Hires

Managers across corporate America are taking on broader individual contributor work and larger teams as of 2024–25, leaving less time to train junior employees. A January Gallup survey found 97% of managers do individual contributor work and average direct reports rose to 12.1 in 2025, driving hiring toward experienced candidates and shrinking entry-level opportunities for Gen Z. This shift may raise barriers for recent graduates seeking early-career roles.