<p>Business confidence might be low, but for young people trying to enter the workforce right now, the challenge runs far deeper. In this episode of UnTrended, Nicole Jones is joined by Jon Lonsdale, Billy Hamilton-Stent, and Aditi Kulkarni to unpack the realities of breaking into the creative industry and why access, not just ability, is often the biggest barrier.</p> <p>From the brutal experience of “spray and pray” job applications and algorithmic rejections to the rising cost of living and shrinking entry-level opportunities, the panel explores what it actually feels like to start a career in 2025. They also dig into the hidden rules of the workplace, from unspoken expectations to cultural norms, and why these can disproportionately exclude those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.</p> <p>The conversation moves beyond the problem to explore solutions: the role of work experience, the importance of mentorship and belief, and why businesses need to be more intentional about nurturing early talent. There’s also a candid discussion on social mobility, personal journeys, and whether the UK’s “meritocracy” really exists in practice.</p> <p>Later, Nicole speaks with Jenni Anderson, CEO of The Talent Foundry, to explore how businesses can take meaningful action. From building confidence and skills in the classroom to creating real pathways into employment, Jenny shares how employers can help unlock opportunity for the next generation and why small interventions can have life-changing impact.</p> <p>If you care about the future of talent, diversity in the creative industries, or simply want to understand what it takes to get a foot in the door today, this episode is for you.</p> <p>Subscribe to The UnTrended Podcast wherever you get your podcasts and never miss an episode.</p> <p><b>Chapter Markers</b></p> <p><b>(03:00) Entering the Workforce in 2025</b></p> <p>Why applying for jobs feels like a numbers game and often a losing one.</p> <p><b>(10:00) The Experience Gap</b></p> <p>What happened to work experience and why it matters more than ever.</p> <p><b>(15:00) Social Mobility: Myth vs Reality</b></p> <p>Who really gets access to opportunities and why background still matters.</p> <p><b>(22:00) The Hidden Rules of Work</b></p> <p>The unspoken expectations that can make or break early careers.</p> <p><b>(28:00) Confidence, Networks, and “Seeing It to Be It”</b></p> <p>Why belief and exposure are just as important as skills.</p> <p><b>(34:00) How Businesses Can Make a Difference (Talent Foundry)</b></p> <p>Practical ways organisations can support young people and build future talent pipelines.</p> <p><b>Useful Links</b></p> <p>Get to know Jenni Anderson on <a href="https://uk.linkedin.com/in/jamil-qureshi-494661a" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a></p> <p>For more information on how you can help support be sure to visit the <a href="https://www.talentfoundry.org.uk/" target="_blank">Talent Foundry website</a></p> <p>Follow Nicole Jones on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-jones-447b1547/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a></p> <p>Touch base with Jon Lonsdale on <a href="https://uk.linkedin.com/in/jonlon" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a></p> <p>Connect with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/billy-hamilton-stent-6226a/" target="_blank">Billy Hamilton-Stent</a></p> <p>Learn more from <a href="https://uk.linkedin.com/in/aditi-kulkarni-4317601b0" target="_blank">Aditi Kulkarni</a></p> <p>For more information visit the <a href="https://publicispro.com/" target="_blank">Publicis Pro website</a></p>