>[!AI Summary]+ **Impact on Employment and Career Prospects** A longitudinal study by King’s College London and the University of Greenwich found that ==adolescents experiencing loneliness are more likely to be out of education, employment, or training (NEET) in early adulthood==. These individuals often perceive themselves as less employable and report lower social status compared to their less lonely peers. Notably, ==the negative effects of early-life loneliness on employment persisted even when individuals no longer felt lonely in adulthood==, suggesting long-term implications for career development . Further research indicates that loneliness during adolescence can lead to social and academic difficulties, such as ==bullying and school refusal==, resulting in lower educational qualifications and disadvantaged positions in the job market . **Broader Socioeconomic Consequences** Loneliness has been associated with reduced optimism about career prospects among young people. A systematic review highlighted that ==lonely individuals often face difficulties entering the workforce and may have lower expectations regarding their careers==. Additionally, loneliness during adolescence has been linked to adverse outcomes in mental health, education, and employment, emphasizing the need for early interventions. **Experiences of Loneliness in the Workplace** Qualitative research focusing on young adult workers in Western Europe revealed that feelings of invisibility and a lack of belonging in the workplace contribute to loneliness. Participants reported that automation and individualization of work practices often led to relational deficiencies, making them feel unheard and unseen. This sense of isolation can hinder the development of interpersonal skills and negatively impact job performance and satisfaction .