If you just finished (or have recently completed) your MBA, I’m looking for work.
You probably had some work experience during college. Whether it was a role as a waiter or a summer internship, most recent graduates have some work world experience.
Similarly, recent graduates looking for their first real job are looking for entry-level positions – they have the necessary education but don’t yet have solid work experience.
Three new graduate and mid-career job openings available
A position where I can join at a level where I can gain great experience from senior team members, receive on-the-job training and learn a lot along the way seems like the ideal solution.
Fewer entry-level jobs
Entry-level positions are important because they are a critical introduction to the workforce. A steep learning curve will challenge you, but at the same time, it will give you the opportunity to gain key foundational skills and knowledge in your chosen field.
But data shows that entry-level jobs are in decline: An analysis of nearly 4 million job ads from late 2017 found that 35% of jobs are unfilled. “Entry level” positions available Going forward, we will be asking about the number of years of relevant work experience.
Plus, it’s even more common in certain industries: over 60% of entry-level software and IT services job postings require three or more years of experience.
Alan Shields, Associate Professor of Economics, Auburn University points out “The most important years of your career are the first three years. The quality of your first employer is crucial. So how do you land your first job?”
Internships are becoming an increasingly important part of graduate work experience packages: “Internships are now entry level,” confirms Shields.
“Most college students are doing or about to do an internship, and it’s becoming more and more common now to do multiple internships.”
Aside from internships and summer work experience, what else can recent graduates do to land their first real job in an increasingly competitive job market?
Want to apply for a job right now? GradCafe’s job board is the perfect place to start your search.
Your resume is one of the most important documents you have at this stage, and optimizing it as much as possible will go a long way to your success.
Showcase your skills
It may be difficult to convey this information in a professional manner if the only jobs you’ve ever had during college are as a waiter, retailer, or bartender, so instead of saying, “I worked as a sales associate in the summer of 2024,” explain your experience.
Instead, try this: “While working as a sales representative, I prioritized finding solutions to customer problems, demonstrated time management skills, and collaborated with my team to solve problems and provide excellent customer service.”
This clearly demonstrates that you understand what the job entails and allows you to demonstrate that you have valuable skills as an employee regardless of the industry.
Highlight your academic achievements and awards
A college degree is one of the best assets an entry-level job applicant can have, and at this stage it makes sense to give it more space on your resume. Use this opportunity to detail your college experience.
List your accomplishments too: sporting achievements, academic awards, organizations or clubs you’ve been involved in, fundraising efforts, etc. can all be used to portray you in a positive light.
Showcase your transferable skills
While you may think your skills are lacking early in your career, employers are looking for more than just core technical or hard skills.
Companies are increasingly valuing and seeking employees with transferable and portable skills. These are often categorised as soft skills, but are just as important, so if you can demonstrate good communication skills, organisational skills, attention to detail, leadership and relationship-building skills, for example, you’ll be at an advantage.
For example, think back to a time you led a group assignment or how you ran a college social event. Showing that you developed these skills during your time at college is a great way to demonstrate that you will be a really effective team member for years to come.
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