The Incidence and Determinants of Job Search Channels Among Youth in Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the incidence and determinants of channels used by youth in Kenya. Understanding youth choices of job search channels is important because of the possible implications of outcomes in the labour market such as employment and earnings. The study was guided by job search theory and a discrete choice model in which an individual chooses a job search method that maximizes their utility. A multinomial logit regression model was estimated to investigate how gender, labour market conditions, human capital, demographic and socio-economic status characteristics of youth looking for work in Kenya influence their search methods options. The findings from the study indicate that majority of the young people in Kenya preferred inquiring at workplaces compared to other job search methods. The level of education was a significant factor for the youth in determining the choice of method used when seeking for work. Gender, age and access to information were significant factors associated with waiting at a street-side over inquiring at workplaces. The youth aged 20-24 was also a significant factor associated with registering at employment agencies. This insights into the search behavior for employment of Kenyan youth can therefore, inform job assistance policies, programs and interventions aimed at improving youth employment outcomes.