You're about to graduate, or you’ve got your fresh diploma clutched in hand—and you’re ready to conquer the professional world. But wait... employers might not be as ready for you as you think you are for them. A 2024 General Assembly survey found that 66% of executives believe entry-level hires lack the readiness they had just five years ago.
Does that mean you're doomed to sending endless applications and receiving nothing but radio silence? Absolutely not! The job market might be shifting, but with the right prep, you can turn this into your superpower.
Another important finding from that survey is that companies are scaling back on onboarding and training, leaving new grads to figure it out on their own. That’s OK (we promise)—because you have the time and resources to address that head-on.
Whether you're a grad or still in school, the following tips will help you build the skills and confidence you need to thrive in today’s competitive workforce.
Who’s ready? You’re ready.
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Preparation matters more than ever
Employers see beyond college degrees—they’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running. “Entry-level employees often excel in theoretical knowledge but lack practical problem-solving skills,” says tech leader Reade Taylor, founder and president of IT company Cyber Command, about his experience hiring. This isn’t just limited to tech; across industries, hiring managers are seeking employees who can quickly adapt and contribute to their teams.
Smart entry-level candidates like you need to prepare proactively. From honing technical skills to cultivating soft skills like communication, every effort you make now will pay off later.
1. Gain real-world experience (even before graduating)
Employers often value hands-on experience over theoretical knowledge, so don’t wait until after graduation to get started.
Pursue internships and externships
Internships and externships are great ways to explore your chosen field while building your resume. Even unpaid opportunities can provide invaluable experience and connections. (Here’s everything you need to know about internships—from what they are to how to get one.)
Try part-time or freelance work
Part-time jobs or freelance gigs can teach you skills like time management and client communication. If you lack experience, start by offering your services on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, or ask local businesses if they need help with small projects. Networking with professors, classmates, or alumni can also lead to opportunities.
Volunteer in your community
Volunteering for organizations that align with your interests or career goals can help you gain experience while giving back. (Here are three volunteer opportunities that will seriously boost your career.)
2. Build in-demand soft skills
Gen Z professionals are digital natives in analog expectations—meaning they’re great with tech but might struggle with more traditional workplace skills. First-year hires may be able to automate systems office veterans struggle to use. But if they’re asked to lead a client meeting? Pure panic.
The General Assembly survey revealed that while technical expertise is a strength for many entry-level employees, skills like communication, collaboration, and adaptability are where gaps often emerge. They’ve mastered digital tools but missed the human ones.
To truly stand out in the job market, new grads must complement their hard skills with the soft skills employers value most. Here’s how to strike that balance.
Sharpen your communication skills
Effective communication is essential in every industry. Whether you're delivering a presentation, writing emails, or participating in meetings, practice conveying your ideas clearly and confidently. To do so, join a public speaking group like Toastmasters or take a communication-focused course.
Prioritize teamwork and collaboration
Even the most technically skilled employee won’t thrive in isolation. Employers value those who can work effectively in teams, contribute ideas, and handle group dynamics. Always engage in team projects or extracurricular activities where you can practice working with diverse groups of people.
Develop your adaptability
In fast-changing workplaces, adaptability is a critical asset. Being open to feedback, learning new tools, and pivoting when challenges arise will make you more valuable. Whenever you can, take on new challenges during internships or volunteer work to demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to learn.
Practice problem-solving
Problem-solving goes beyond technical know-how—it’s about approaching challenges logically and creatively. Employers want candidates who can think critically under pressure. A good approach to this is to solve real-world problems through case studies, hackathons, or simulations that mimic workplace scenarios.
Focus on emotional intelligence (EQ)
Emotional intelligence—the ability to understand and manage your own emotions and empathize with others—is increasingly important in the workplace. It helps build relationships, navigate conflicts, and foster a positive work environment. To achieve it, try to reflect on your interactions, practice active listening, and seek feedback from mentors or peers.
Remember, employers aren’t just hiring for what you know—they’re hiring for how you work with others. Strengthening your soft skills will ensure that your technical expertise truly shines.
3. Grow your professional network
Building a strong network during college will make finding job opportunities and gaining industry insights easier.
Attend job fairs and career events
Many universities host career fairs where you can connect with recruiters and industry professionals. Make the most of these events by preparing a polished resume and practicing your elevator pitch. (Here’s what to do at a career fair—with tips for before, during, and after.)
Use LinkedIn effectively
Don't wait until after college to start using LinkedIn. A well-crafted LinkedIn profile can help you showcase your skills and connect with professionals in your field. Start early: follow companies you’re interested in, engage with their content, and don’t hesitate to send thoughtful connection requests. (Here are the best cold outreach LinkedIn messages for seeking advice, jobs, and more.)
Join student organizations
Clubs and organizations related to your career interests can be a great way to meet like-minded peers and industry professionals. These connections will follow you along your professional journey after college.
4. Understand what to expect from employers
Not all companies offer the same level of support to new hires, so it’s important to research their onboarding and training processes.
Ask about training during interviews
During interviews, ask employers how they support entry-level employees in their first months. For example, inquire about mentorship programs, structured training plans, or opportunities to shadow experienced team members.
Seek mentorship opportunities
A strong mentorship program can help you develop skills and gain confidence faster. If you're unsure where to begin, here are 10 tips for finding a mentor—and making the relationship count.
Prepare for a hands-on learning curve
Some companies immerse new hires in real-world scenarios from day one. For example, Taylor’s company simulates IT incidents for new hires to resolve, “equipping them with invaluable hands-on experience,” he says. Be ready to dive in and learn by doing.
5. Stay adaptable and resilient
The job market is constantly evolving, so staying adaptable is key.
Embrace lifelong learning
Consider taking online courses or attending workshops to keep your skills sharp. Explore free or affordable platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or local community programs to broaden your knowledge. Networking events and industry webinars can also provide valuable insights into emerging trends.
Learn from rejection
Not every application or interview will result in a job offer, and that’s OK. Treat each experience as a learning opportunity, and don’t let setbacks discourage you. (Here’s how to move on when you didn’t land the job.)
Take charge of your future
The journey from student to professional is filled with opportunities to grow, learn, and shine. By gaining practical experience, building both technical and soft skills, and understanding what employers expect, you’ll be well-prepared to stand out in the job market.
“It’s essential to learn through doing, not just observation, to quickly build the confidence needed for autonomous decision-making,” Taylor says. Take charge of your future, embrace the process, and remember that preparation is the key to success.