“So I graduated from university back in September, and like many fresh grads, I’ve been deep in the job search ever since. It’s been anything but easy. The job market is honestly brutal, especially when you’re told your whole life that a degree will open doors, only to face auto-rejections or dead silence after interviews.
I’ve done it all: reached out to recruiters, networked like crazy, paid for CV reviews, tapped into my uni’s career services, and even gave the job centre a shot.”
The latest from the New York Federal Reserve shows that unemployment for grads has jumped to 5.8%, the highest we’ve seen since 2021
Still, nothing was landing… until Mark, yes, Mark cracked the code. He landed a job using one of the most creative strategies for new graduate jobs and entry-level job search I’ve ever seen.
In this post, I’m breaking down those unique approaches for new graduates who can't find jobs, including the one that worked for him.
1. A resume doesn’t need to be flashy or unforgettable
It just needs to do its job. I hope you know that a resume is a quick pitch. If written effectively, it earns you a shot at an interview. That’s it. It’s a stepping stone, not the final destination.
You’ve probably heard this stat before: most recruiters skim a resume for just 6–7 seconds during their first glance. In that blink of an eye, they’re scanning for a match (relevant experience, education, and key qualifications). If it checks those boxes, it might get a longer look and land in the “yes” pile. If not? It's out.
So forget trying to be “memorable.” Focus on being clear. Your resume's only job is to signal, loud and clear, that you're a match for the role.
2. Content beats creativity, almost every time
Unless you’re applying for a role in graphic design or something visual-heavy, your resume doesn’t need to be a work of art. What matters most is what it says, not how fancy it looks.
One of the most innovative job application ideas I’ve ever come across? That was indeed a resume. It wasn’t because of clever formatting or design. It was the story it told. The candidate started out selling cigarettes and eventually transitioned into pharmaceutical sales.
We joked that his career path was basically: sell the smokes, sell the meds for lung cancer, then pivot to mortuary sales to sell the casket. Yeah, it was dark humor. But clearly, it stuck with me. And that’s because the content told a wild, unforgettable career story.
3. Create proof of work and make it hit like a punch to the face (figuratively)
If you want to stand out, you need proof, something that makes decision-makers pause.
Instead of a generic cover letter, create a one-page value pitch for each role. Show them you’ve done your homework: point out a real problem, explain how you’d tackle it, and back it up with something you’ve built or done that proves you can deliver.
Or, record a 90-second video intro. No script, no fluff. Just be real: talk about who you are, what you do, and why you actually care about the company.
And when you reach out? Don’t just say you’re “interested.” DM hiring managers with actual ideas. Notice something off in their product or campaign? Offer quick suggestions. Lead with value.
Creative ways to find a job aren’t about being perfect. It’s about being bold, original, and impossible to ignore.
4. Personalizing your application is networking
I’ve got a base resume (two pages) that I tweak for every single job I apply to. Sometimes, one application takes me the entire day. I never hit “quick apply.” Not once have I heard back from one of those. Honestly, it feels more like data collection than job recruiting.
What really makes the difference? The cover letter. I know, no one wants to write one. But if you’ve got a solid format ready, it’s not that bad. I used to be on academic hiring committees, and it’s painfully obvious when a letter is just filler versus when it actually says something.
Start simple. One short paragraph on why you’re excited about the role, followed by what you bring to the team. Something like: “I was excited to see this position; it connects with my experience in customer service, tech systems, and user-focused design.”
Then go deeper. Add two or three paragraphs (around 7–8 sentences each) highlighting your experience. Use numbers. If you’ve got awards or testimonials, add those too. For example, I’d write: “Supported an academic library averaging [XXX] patrons daily, serving over [XXX] annually.” You don’t need to stretch the truth; just use context from annual reports or public data.
Also, when you apply for your new graduate jobs, always add a personal touch. That might mean referencing a program the library runs, a class they offer, or even the surrounding community. Yesterday, I applied to a role at a community college and shared how I worked full-time while doing grad school at night and how that helps me relate to their students. I even mentioned that I used to live in that neighborhood for a decade. That kind of context matters.
I’ve learned it’s far better to craft one strong, personalized application than to toss out a hundred generic ones. That level of effort? It’s networking, plain and simple. You’re showing that you care. And that alone sets you apart.
5. Use AI to beat AI
Let’s be honest. Before your application even hits a human’s screen, there’s a good chance it’s being scanned by an algorithm.
Most companies now rely on ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) or AI tools that filter resumes and cover letters based on keywords, formatting, and language cues. If your application doesn’t match what the system wants, it might be auto-rejected, no matter how qualified you actually are.
So if you’re struggling to break through that first digital wall, consider this: fight AI with AI.
Particularly, how to use AI to apply to jobs? Tools like ChatGPT or Copilot (or even AI-powered resume builders) can help your application hit those algorithm-friendly targets. These tools can fine-tune your writing by doing things like:
Pulling in the right keywords from the job description
Structuring your resume so it aligns with what ATS systems like
Upgrading your wording so it reads more like what the system is trained to look for
Another new strategy I’ve been using? I feed the job description into ChatGPT and ask it questions like:
“What skills are critical for success in this role?”
“What kind of personality would thrive here?”
“What’s a realistic day-to-day challenge someone in this position might solve?”
Then I use that info to shape my cover letter. For example, if ChatGPT says the role involves managing multiple patron requests at once (a classic library setting), I’ll write something like:
“At [Library Name], I supported over [X] patrons annually, often juggling high foot traffic during peak hours. I’m used to multitasking without losing focus. Indeed, I was once voted ‘Most Likely to Stay Calm in an Emergency’ by my team. I’d love to bring that same presence into this role.”
The point is, using AI doesn’t mean sounding robotic. It means using smart tools to enhance your storytelling and beat the bots at their own game.
6. Mock Interviews that actually help (and aren’t AI noise)
There are tons of AI-powered mock interview tools out there right now, and some are decent.
On the one hand, AI still misses a lot of the subtle stuff that real interviewers pick up on. But on the other hand, decent tools dedicated to the job interview for fresh graduates not only quizzes you but also trains you to think and speak like you're already in the room. Look for platforms that simulate real tech interviews, especially if you’re going for SDE (Software Development Engineer) or other technical roles. Make sure it gives feedback on both your answers and how you deliver them.
Besides, here are a few underrated prep tips that helped me level up:
Record yourself talking through your answers. You’ll catch awkward phrasing, weird pauses, and habits you didn’t know you had.
Try explaining code while writing it. It sounds easy… until you try.
Time your problem-solving. Most people forget to simulate the pressure of a ticking clock.
Honestly though? The most helpful prep I ever did wasn’t even techy. It was personal.
One of the best things I did was mock interviews with actual people over Zoom. My spouse got their coworkers to help, and even had our 12-year-old ask me questions (which, by the way, was more intimidating than I expected). Turns out, the best answer in your head often sounds like “uhhhh” when you have to say it out loud.
I also binge-watched YouTube videos of real interviews. Not the sketchy ones, but legit channels where people walk through real Q&A. Seeing how they moved, paused, smiled; it taught me more about body language.
And yeah, I’m an introvert. Eye contact drains me. So I brought a sleek notepad with work samples for interviews (not just for show, but as a confidence prop). It helped redirect the spotlight when nerves kicked in.
Another tip is, if you’re applying for recent grad jobs to specific companies, try to do live mock interviews with someone who’s actually worked there. The feedback is on-point and laser-specific. Sites like Exponent, Prepfully, and Interviewing.io are good for this. If you find a coach with solid reviews, even better.
7. Look like you already have the job
Let’s not overcomplicate this. Wear a suit. Seriously. Dress like you’re already above the role you’re applying for. You’d be surprised how far just looking the part can take you. I’ve done it. It works.
Think about it. If someone shows up in a sharp suit, holding a briefcase, stepping out of a nice car, they might not actually have money, but everyone assumes they do. They look like they belong somewhere important. That perception alone can change how people treat you.
I’ve watched people walk into interviews and instantly knew they weren’t getting the job. Not because of what they said, but how they carried themselves. Confidence or the lack of it shows before you even open your mouth.
One time, I sat for an oral board interview. I didn’t prepare much, but I stayed cool, made up solid answers on the fly, and still ended up in the top two out of 70 applicants. Why? Because I looked like I was meant to be there. The way you present yourself can speak louder than anything on your resume.
8. Networking isn’t optional; it’s the shortcut
The fastest and unique ways to get a job? Through someone you know. A past coworker, classmate, professor, or someone you met at an event. Cold applying can work, but warm intros work faster.
More specifically, start with what you already have: classmates, alumni, professors. Then branch out; attend industry meetups (in person or virtual), join relevant Slack or Discord groups, or explore forums and LinkedIn communities. You can find all of these with a quick search or on sites like Meetup.com.
Want to build rapport with someone more experienced? Ask thoughtful questions about their work. It’s an easy way to start real conversations and show you understand the field.
And don’t overthink it; networking isn’t some awkward pitch. It’s just making friends with people who share your interests. Consistency matters more than charm. Show up, follow up, and stay engaged.
A few simple tips:
Attend events regularly. Don’t be the one who shows up once and asks for a favor.
Add people on LinkedIn after you’ve chatted, not before.
Keep in touch: send useful links, congratulate wins, check in from time to time.
Be helpful. Offer intros, answer questions, be curious about their journey.
When it feels natural, ask: “Hey, I really enjoyed working with you, any openings on your team?
Why is networking important for recent graduates? People refer people they like. Trust and familiarity lead to jobs faster than any resume ever will.
9. School isn’t enough; build your own projects
Here’s the truth: school doesn’t teach you everything you need. There’s always a gap between what’s taught in class and what companies actually want. The only way to figure out what you don’t know? Build something on your own.
What helped my bestie the most was starting a basic full-stack project and expanding it slowly. She only knew C++ from her coursework, but she picked up HTML and CSS through tutorials, then added a Flask backend with MongoDB. Eventually, she integrated a machine learning model and deployed the whole thing. Every step was slow and messy, just reading docs, watching videos, and tweaking until it worked.
That project? It got her an internship. Not because she was top of her class or finished some fancy course, but because she built something. And it showed she could figure things out on her own. In interviews, no one asked about school. They asked about the project. And funny enough, the jobs she got were directly related to what she built.
So if you want an edge in a crowded new graduate job market? If you want to secure jobs for recent college graduates with no experience? Start your own thing. Doesn’t have to be huge. Just make something real. Show you're curious, self-taught, and capable of learning fast. That’s what stands out.
10. “I felt like I knew nothing”: Why that’s normal (and why hackathons still matter)
If you’ve ever gone to a hackathon and felt like you had no idea what you were doing, you’re not alone. That “I don’t know anything” feeling is incredibly common, especially among computer science students seeing real-world development for the first time. But in fact, that uncomfortable feeling is exactly why you should go.
Industry-specific hackathons are especially valuable for new grads and early-career professionals. These events focus on solving real problems in specific sectors like healthcare, fintech, or logistics. In other words, the work you’re doing is directly relevant to your career goals. You’re not only building for fun but also building for context.
Even if your project isn’t perfect, it still becomes a tangible piece of work you can showcase. That’s huge. Adding a completed hackathon project to your portfolio shows off your technical skills and proves that you know how to work under pressure and collaborate in a fast-paced environment.
Beyond the work itself, hackathons are excellent for networking. You’re surrounded by engineers, recruiters, startup founders, and mentors who are already active in the space. Those connections can lead to job leads, mentorship, or even direct opportunities, just by being in the room and putting in the effort.
You also get to work with tools and technologies you might not have used in school, like APIs, cloud platforms, or development frameworks that are actually used in the industry. This hands-on exposure boosts your confidence and makes you more employable.
Plus, by working on real-world problems, you gain a deeper understanding of what companies actually care about, something that can’t be taught in a classroom.
And yes, it’s intense. You’ll be overwhelmed. You’ll second-guess yourself. But that’s the point. Pushing through that chaos teaches you more than a semester of lectures ever could. You build technical skills, communication skills, and maybe most importantly, you build proof that you can learn and adapt on the fly.
So even if you show up feeling lost, keep going. Use the hackathon to get a job and more. The progress happens in the doing, and the doing happens at hackathons.
11. Cold outreach that actually gets you interviews with big firms
If your current strategy is just clicking "apply" and hoping for the best, especially with big firms, you're setting yourself up for radio silence. Internal recruiters are getting hundreds of applications per role. Dropping your CV into that black hole isn’t enough anymore.
Sometimes, cold pitching isn’t a backup plan. It’s a power move when done right. Here’s how to write cold emails for jobs step by step:
First, know exactly who to target
Don’t message generic HR inboxes. Instead, search for specific people: hiring managers, tech leads, recruiters, or even peers in the job you want. If you’re eyeing a software role, look for dev managers or technical recruiters on LinkedIn.
Second, build a simple outreach tracker
You need a system. Excel works, but tools like Folk can streamline things. You can organize contacts, import LinkedIn profiles, and track responses all in one place.
Third, find their contact info
Use tools like Hunter, RocketReach, or Skrapp to dig up their email. If that fails, InMail or LinkedIn DMs are still better than nothing.
Then, nail the subject line
Short. Specific. Intriguing. Mention something about them (a blog they wrote, a post they shared, or a project they led)
Fifth, start with a real connection
Begin your message with a personalized line. “I saw your recent post on AngularJS and loved your take. It reminded me of how we approached things at my last company.”
Sixth, show your value fast
Bullet-point a few quick wins:
Built and deployed full-stack apps using XYZ
Led a project that improved load time by 30%
Passionate about applying ML models to real-world use cases
Next, be clear about why you’re reaching out
Let them know what you’re looking for without sounding like you expect to land their new graduate jobs. “I’m really interested in your team and would love to hear more about your experience, what you’re working on, and where I might be able to contribute.”
Eighth, ask for something specific
Always include a soft call to action. “Would you be open to a 15–20 minute virtual coffee chat sometime next week? Totally understand if it’s not the right time.”
Ninth, hit send, then track it
If you're using a tool like Folk, it can send out your personalized messages in batches and track opens, clicks, and replies.
Finally, follow up (but don’t be annoying)
If they don’t respond, wait about five business days, then send a polite follow-up. After two attempts, move on and keep building your list.
Bonus: What if you can’t find a contact?
Sometimes job listings won’t include any direct contact. No worries; just go digging. Look up the company on LinkedIn and send a message like:
“I wasn’t sure if you’re the right person to contact, but if not, would you mind pointing me in the right direction?”
The trick is to stay persistent but respectful. Cold outreach isn’t about asking for a handout. It’s about showing up with clarity, effort, and value. That alone makes you stand out.
Final words
Use the entry level job search tips above and you’ll land the job that fits you. I’m 99% sure; just bring that final 1% of effort to apply them right.
Bonus: Some updates about the market you may be interested in:
The Job Market for Grads Right Now? Kinda Rough.
If you’re a recent college grad looking for work in 2025, chances are you’ve noticed. It’s not cute out there. The latest from the New York Federal Reserve shows that unemployment for grads has jumped to 5.8%, the highest we’ve seen since 2021. But that’s not even the full picture. A massive 41.2% of grads are underemployed, meaning they’re stuck in jobs that don’t match their skills or degrees. That gap between what grads studied for and what they’re actually doing? It’s the worst it’s been in decades.
What’s Going On With Different Fields?
The tech world is especially taking a hit. Job listings for software programming roles have tanked, down over 50% since 2022, according to Indeed. But it’s not all doom and gloom. There’s still solid demand in other areas like software development (not the same as programming), accounting, and health services management. In fact, software dev roles are expected to grow 23% by the end of 2025. Accounting and auditing? Up 10.7%. Health services management? Climbing 16.9%. It’s clear that while some doors are closing, others are still wide open.
Big Picture Stuff: Economy + Tech = Uncertainty
A bunch of outside forces are making things tougher. Between weird tariff shifts and AI creeping into more roles, grads are following an unpredictable landscape. There’s some buzz that AI might be eating up entry-level jobs. But LinkedIn’s chief economist and the New York Fed aren’t seeing huge effects yet. Still, the fear is real. On top of that, inflation’s cooled off a bit, but wages aren’t rising like they used to. Yeah, they’re still beating inflation, but barely. That means grads have a little more buying power than before, but it’s not exactly baller status.
What Actually Works? Networking + Showing Your Skills
If there’s one thing still holding strong, it’s the power of knowing people. About 40% of Millennials landed their current gigs through their personal networks. Alumni groups, LinkedIn DMs, coffee chats, they all matter. Plus, there’s a major shift toward skills-based hiring. Almost two-thirds of companies are now hiring based on what you can actually do, not just what’s on your degree. If you’ve got the skills, you’re in the game, even without tons of experience.