41 40 Nexgen Careers was launched in 2011 by Neil Finnie and his co-founders. It aims to build students’ confidence and skills to help them thrive in the rapidly changing future of work. Q: What inspired you to start Nexgen? A: We noticed that students weren’t fully prepared for the transition to internships or full-time work. Many lacked the practical and emotional skills needed to thrive in these environments. Additionally, many companies weren’t always ready to support young professionals in building those crucial skills. That’s why we created Nexgen - to offer a bridge to help students transition and empower them to maximize their potential. Instead of traditional internships where students are often left to figure things out on their own, Nexgen offers a collaborative work experience. Students work in groups on real projects from local organizations, creating a “safe space” to develop confidence and skills. We also provide training in human-centric skills—things like creativity, communication, and building resilience. By the end of our program, students are ready for the next step in their career journey, whether that’s another internship or even their first full-time job. Our goal is to equip students with essential skills, like creativity, resilience, and communication, that are often overlooked but critical for long-term success. Q: Can you explain the "hidden job market" and why it matters? A: The hidden job market refers to job opportunities that aren’t advertised through traditional means like job boards or company websites. Instead, these positions are filled through internal hiring, employee referrals, or networking. Many people aren’t aware of how large this market is— some people estimate that up to 70% of jobs may never be posted publicly. If you’re only looking at advertised roles, you’re missing out on a huge chunk of opportunities. Q: Why is knowing about the hidden job market helpful for students? A: Understanding the hidden job market gives students a significant advantage. It helps them focus on networking and building connections, which is key to unlocking these unadvertised opportunities. By leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and attending industry events, students can position themselves as candidates before jobs are even posted. Interview with Neil Finnie at Nexgen Careers
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