The State of the Job Market in BC (2025): Why Career Counselling Matters More Than Ever
British Columbia’s labour market is undergoing changes that are making job searches more complex — for recent grads, mid-career changers, and anyone thinking of what comes next. If you’re feeling uncertain about your next move, you’re not alone. But you can gain clarity, confidence, and direction — and that’s where career counselling comes in.
In this article, we’ll:
Summarize the current state of the job market in BC
Examine key challenges and opportunities for young adults and adult job-seekers
Show how career counselling (or guidance) can help you navigate this landscape successfully
Offer practical tips & considerations if you’re thinking of working with a counsellor
The current state of the job market in British Columbia
Here are some of the main trends for BC as of late 2025:
Unemployment is rising. The unemployment rate in BC was about 6.2% in August 2025, up from 5.9% in July.
Job losses in full-time and part-time work. In August, BC saw declines in both full-time (-9,300 jobs, ~-0.4%) and part-time (-6,400 jobs, ~-1.1%) employment.
Sectors hit harder than others. The information, culture and recreation sector saw some of the biggest losses — especially in film & TV.
National & provincial pressures. Rising unemployment nationally (~7.1%), weakening job vacancies, and industry slowdowns are contributing to uncertainty.
What this means for job-seekers:
More competition for fewer positions in certain industries
Employers expecting more experience or flexibility
Underemployment becoming more common
The rising importance of transferable skills, adaptability, and continuous learning
Challenges and Opportunities for Young Adults and Adults
Challenges
Uncertainty & overwhelm. With shifting demand (e.g. tech slowdowns, film/TV fluctuations), many people feel unsure about which paths are stable or viable.
Mismatch of skills and opportunities. Degrees or past work experience don’t always align with where demand is strongest.
Barriers to entry. Lack of relevant experience, weak networks, or unclear goals can stall progress.
Confidence issues. Repeated rejections or failed pivots can erode motivation and increase stress.
Opportunities
Growth sectors. Health care, green economy, trades, and certain tech niches continue to expand.
Remote/hybrid options. Geographic flexibility is greater than ever.
Lifelong learning. Micro-credentials, apprenticeships, and training are more available.
Career transitions are possible. Transferable skills and bridging programs are opening doors.
How Career Counselling Helps
Engaging with a trained career counsellor is more than just polishing a resume. Here are some of the most important ways it can help:
Clarity of goals and values. Counsellors help you define what matters most — whether that’s stability, financial growth, balance, or meaningful work — and align your career decisions with those priorities.
Understanding the market. A counsellor can guide you through current labour market data, identify industries that are growing in BC, and help set realistic expectations around salaries and opportunities.
Identifying transferable skills. If you’re pivoting into a new field, a counsellor can highlight which of your past skills carry over and what you may need to strengthen.
Strategic job search support. From ATS-friendly resumes and tailored cover letters to networking strategies, interview preparation, and salary negotiation, career counselling provides concrete tools.
Mindset and resilience. Job searching and career transitions can be emotionally draining. A counsellor offers strategies to manage stress, rebuild confidence, and maintain momentum.
Accountability and structure. It’s easy to stall in a job search. Career counselling breaks big goals into manageable steps and helps keep you on track.
Practical Tips if You’re Considering Career Counselling
If you think working with a career counsellor might be right for you, here are steps to take:
Assess your current situation. What stage are you in — new grad, mid-career, career changer?
Do your research. Find counsellors with relevant experience or certifications. Not all counsellors have substantial training in career development, so it’s worth asking about their background, tools, and approach before committing.
Consider format & cost. Online vs in-person, one-off vs structured program.
Use assessments/tools. Look for validated tools like MBTI® or Strong Interest Inventory®, but also expert interpretation.
Commit to action. Career counselling provides direction, but you’ll need to put it into practice.
Stay flexible. Adjust your plan as you learn from applications, interviews, and market shifts.
Conclusion
The BC job market is in flux — with some sectors contracting while others expand. This creates both uncertainty and opportunity. If you're feeling stuck or unsure, career counselling can provide the clarity, strategy, and confidence you need to move forward. The right guidance can help you base decisions not on fear, but on your strengths, values, and the realities of today’s job market.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’re exploring new career options, preparing for a transition, or simply want more confidence in your direction, career counselling can help. I offer structured, one-on-one sessions designed to give you clarity, tools, and a plan you can act on right away.
Book a free 15-minute consultation with Erica Nye from Connect Therapy and Career to learn how career counselling can support your next move.
(Article Sources: Robert Half, Job Bank BC, WorkBC, Statistics Canada, Canadian Career Development Foundation, Euroguidance)
Hello! I am Erica Nye, a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC).
I offer a range of services to support adults, including individual therapy, career counselling, and specialized support for issues like anxiety, depression, culturally-related issues, and grief. Together, we can work towards achieving holistic well-being and success in your personal and professional life.
If you're ready to take the next step in your journey, contact me today to learn more about how I can support you through therapy. Visit my website for more information.