As the Class of 2025 prepares to graduate, they face an even more challenging job market than in recent years. The unemployment rate for new grads has climbed to 5.8%, up from 4.6% last year. Business leaders warn that making a strong first impression is no longer optional—it’s essential.
In such a crowded and competitive landscape, it’s easy to feel discouraged. But there’s good news: career experts agree that you can stand out if you’re intentional about your approach, your mindset, and your preparation.
The Mindset Challenge for New Grads
A new survey from TopResume reveals that over half (52%) of college graduates don’t believe their degree will land them a job this year, while 43% feel unprepared for the job market and nearly a quarter (24%) have even delayed looking for work until after graduation.
This mindset is itself a major obstacle. Hiring managers can often sense when candidates lack confidence or carry self-doubt. It’s important to project genuine confidence—without arrogance—and to demonstrate readiness to learn.
Appeasing others is another trap. Cooperation and team spirit are great strengths. But if your people-pleasing feels like an act to get ahead, colleagues will sense it, and it can backfire.
Authenticity matters—even when talking about failures. Research shows 22% of hiring managers want to hear about past mistakes. But they don’t just want you to confess—they want to know what you learned, how you grew, and how you’ll avoid repeating them.
How to Avoid Common Early-Career Mistakes
Career expert Laura Gassner Otting, author of Limitless: How to Ignore Everybody, Carve Your Own Path, and Live Your Best Life, knows that transitioning from school to the workplace can be daunting. But she emphasizes that how you show up on day one sets the tone for your entire experience.
According to Otting, these are three mistakes new grads should avoid to ensure they’re seen as an asset right away:
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Jumping in too fast: Don’t try to “fix” everything before you understand the culture or systems in place.
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Not asking for help: Don’t see questions as weakness—they’re a sign you’re engaged and committed.
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Going silent: Don’t leave your boss or team guessing about your progress or challenges. Communication is key.
Otting also recommends preparing carefully for interviews:
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Dress for the job you want. First impressions carry unspoken power.
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Sharpen your people skills. Many grads have lost practice with in-person interaction in a post-pandemic world.
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Learn office norms. Hybrid or in-person work demands different habits than virtual classes.
Six Ways to Shine in the 2025 Job Market
Dr. Chris Graham, executive vice president of workforce and community education at National University, acknowledges that the Class of 2025 has good reason to feel uncertain. But he also offers six concrete strategies to stand out:
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Identify and Close Skill Gaps with AI Tools
Use AI-powered platforms to compare your resume to job postings. Pinpoint missing skills—like Tableau, Python, or other technical knowledge—and work to fill those gaps. Proactive upskilling is a signal of adaptability and readiness. -
Leverage Internal Career Pathways
If you’re already employed while finishing your degree, talk with your supervisors about advancement opportunities. Ask about the certifications or skills needed to move up. Demonstrating commitment to growth can position you for internal promotions. -
Tap Into Alumni Networks and Career Services
Don’t overlook your university’s alumni network, career services, or LinkedIn groups. These can help you find industry insiders, request informational interviews, and build connections with decision-makers in your field. -
Target High-Demand Growth Industries
Look beyond your degree title. Sectors like AI, cybersecurity, supply chain, behavioral health, and project management are actively hiring—and they value transferable skills and a mix of technical and interpersonal strengths. -
Showcase Real-World Experience
If you have military, supervisory, or other real-world experience, highlight it! Employers appreciate candidates who can contribute immediately without lengthy onboarding. It’s a way to stand out beyond your degree. -
Demonstrate Passion for Learning and Upskilling
The market favors lifelong learners. Earning certifications in high-demand areas like AI literacy, project management, or behavioral health shows that you’re prepared for the future and willing to grow with evolving industry needs.
The Power of Mindset
Randy Carver, financial advisor and author of Limitless: Master Your Mind, Defy the Odds, and Achieve the Impossible, offers a final piece of advice for graduates feeling overwhelmed:
“If you’re finding it tough to land a job, don’t be discouraged—be curious. Start by asking why. Seek out feedback from interviews and mentors. Are you applying for roles that match your skills and passions? Can you sharpen your resume or your presentation?”
Carver emphasizes that rejection is not failure—it’s a stepping stone. You may not control the economy or the job market, but you do control your mindset, your effort, and your adaptability.
Stay flexible. Be intentional about your goals. And remember: if you can’t find the job you want, you may have the power—and the creativity—to create it.