Underemployment: What It Is and How to Fix It

Ever feel like your job doesn’t use your skills or pay enough? That’s underemployment, and you’re not alone. It happens when people work in roles that don’t match their education, experience, or hours they’d like.

Underemployment shows up in three common ways: part‑time work when you want full‑time, jobs below your qualification level, or earning far less than your field’s norm. It can creep up after a layoff, a career change, or even during a booming economy if the right openings are scarce.

Why Underemployment Happens

First, the job market can be a mismatch. Employers sometimes hire quickly and settle for anyone who shows up, even if they’re over‑qualified. That means a college graduate might end up stocking shelves simply because the role is open.

Second, geographic gaps matter. A tech professional moving to a small town may only find retail work while they look for remote gigs. The distance between where you live and where opportunities exist can force you into a job that doesn’t fit.

Third, the rise of gig work adds another layer. Platforms promise flexible hours, but many gig jobs pay per task and rarely cover a living wage. People often take them while they hunt for something more stable.

Finally, personal circumstances can push you into underemployment. Caring for family, health issues, or needing immediate cash can make a lower‑paying or part‑time job the only realistic choice.

Tips to Move into Full‑Time or Better‑Fit Work

1. Upgrade your skills. Identify the top tools or certifications in your field and spend a few hours each week learning them. Free online courses, webinars, or short certifications can make your resume stand out.

2. Network strategically. Reach out to former classmates, attend local meetups, or join industry groups on social media. A simple conversation can uncover hidden openings that aren’t posted publicly.

3. Tailor your resume. Highlight achievements that match the role you want, not just your current duties. Use numbers – like “increased sales by 20%” – to show impact.

4. Consider remote work. Many companies now hire talent worldwide. Update your LinkedIn profile to show you’re open to remote positions and filter job searches for “remote”.

5. Set a realistic timeline. Give yourself a deadline to move out of an underemployed role, whether that’s six months or a year. Having a clear target keeps you focused and motivated.

6. Negotiate wisely. When you land an interview, ask about growth paths and salary ranges early. Knowing the potential for advancement helps you avoid another dead‑end job.

7. Stay financially smart. While you’re in an underemployed position, keep a budget, save wherever possible, and avoid high‑interest debt. A solid financial cushion gives you the freedom to wait for a better role.

Underemployment isn’t permanent if you treat it as a stepping stone rather than a dead‑end. By sharpening skills, expanding networks, and being proactive about job searches, you can transition into a role that matches your talent and pays fairly.

Remember, many people have been where you are now and moved on to full‑time, satisfying careers. Your next move starts with a small action today – whether it’s signing up for a short course or reaching out to a former colleague. Take that step, and you’ll be on your way out of underemployment faster than you think.