Underemployment is a form of wage-disinflation, meaning that a change in wages due to economic factors leads to a decline in wages even when the number of jobs remains the same. It affects both those employed and those seeking but not obtaining a job, as well as those with the potential for better employment but who are unable to find it due to the lack of skills, experience, or qualifications. It is an issue that has a large economic and social impact, as it widens the gap between those workers with quality employment opportunities, and those with fewer options and lower incomes.

Visible underemployment is also known as open unemployment. It occurs when individuals are employed in jobs that are not suited to their age, qualifications, or experience. This type of underemployment is often associated with lower wages and lower job security. People in this situation are typically stuck in a cycle of temporary or seasonal work with no long-term job prospects.

Invisible underemployment is a more subtle problem, as it is harder to quantify. It is often caused by a lack of jobs in a person’s given field. A person may be qualified for positions in a sector that is not hiring, or may have been laid off from a job that has since been automated or outsourced. Individuals experiencing invisible underemployment may find themselves searching for a permanent job for years without finding one that is suitable for their skills and experience.

Underemployment is a cause for concern because of its damaging effects on individuals, the economy, and society. It leads to a mismatch of skills, a lack of income, and economic stress. It also leads to decreased efficiency, as workers are unable to find a job that suits their chosen field and are forced to take jobs in other sectors. This can cause long-term damage, as it reduces overall productivity in the economy and makes it harder for businesses to remain competitive.

The issue of underemployment is a serious one, and is the result of a range of interrelated factors, such as technological advancements, global competition, and economic recessions. Governments and policymakers should take steps to ensure that workers are not forced into under-utilized labor roles. Policies could include subsidizing training programs and providing job search assistance, as well as initiatives to help businesses increase the availability of quality jobs. In an increasingly competitive global economy, fixing the problem of underemployment is essential for a thriving and stable workforce.