Finding a job after graduation can feel like a full-time job in itself. You’ve earned your degree, polished your resume, and submitted applications, only to be met with silence. The truth is, landing your first job isn’t just about having a diploma. Recruiters are looking for potential, adaptability, and the right combination of skills and presentation. So what do recruiters really look for in recent grads? And how can you show them you're the right fit?
Let’s break it down.
When hiring recent grads, recruiters aren’t expecting decades of experience, but they are evaluating a mix of hard and soft skills, mindset, and communication. The attributes employers look for go far beyond your GPA.
Many recruiters want candidates who can adapt quickly, communicate clearly, and demonstrate motivation. They want to see that you've taken initiative through internships, part-time jobs, or leadership experiences. In a competitive job market, technical skills alone are not enough. Being collaborative, reliable, and open to feedback can set you apart.
This is especially true in hiring recent grads, where potential matters more than a fully stacked resume. Use your application to highlight challenges you’ve taken on, goals you’ve met, and lessons you’ve learned.
You can also boost your appeal by developing the key skills employers look for in new grads, even before you land your first job.
When you apply for a job, your resume is your first impression. Recruiters often spend just a few seconds scanning it, so it needs to be clear, focused, and relevant to the role. But what do recruiters look for in a resume, especially from a recent grad?
They want to see alignment between your experiences and the job you’re applying for. A strong recent grad resume highlights internships, class projects, part-time jobs, or volunteer work that shows you’ve built real, transferable skills. It doesn’t need to be packed with professional experience; it just needs to demonstrate that you understand the role and can contribute.
Formatting matters, too. Keep your layout clean, your bullet points concise, and your language action-oriented. Employers are looking for resumes that are easy to read and focused on results. Tailoring your resume to the job description shows that you’ve done your homework and understand the role. If you're not sure where to start, focus on clarity, relevance, and customization.
Here’s the part recruiters don’t want you to know. Many job postings labeled as "entry-level" still require two or more years of experience. Others attract hundreds of applicants, making it hard to stand out, even if you are a strong match.
To get past those barriers, be strategic. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each role. Use your network to find opportunities, get referrals, or connect with someone at the company. According to career experts, referrals remain one of the most effective ways to land interviews.
And yes, cover letters still matter. Recent research shows that the number of recruiters who consider them important has tripled since 2017. Taking the time to write one that speaks to the role shows professionalism and genuine interest. If you're not sure where to start, check out our blog on writing a cover letter that gets you noticed.
