4 Tips for New Grads Struggling to Find a Job

10 Jul 2026 · 3 min · 2 chapters

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In short

Advice for recent college grads who are struggling to find work, focused on four tips: remember your worth, don’t rush, keep networking, and address resume gaps.

Guests

The host, Rachel DeRose (editorial coordinator at HBR), “recently spoke to two career coaches.” Their specific names and backgrounds aren’t provided in the transcript.

Key claims

The job market is a major factor, not personal failure; job searches often take 3–6 months; networking should extend beyond limited online learning/internships; resume gaps can be reframed as purposeful.

Notable examples

Reframe a resume gap as family time, self-growth, or time spent finding the right opportunity; reach out to employees at target companies/industries.

Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.

Chapters

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Job Search Tips for New Graduates

0:00 to 0:28

Learn key strategies for new grads struggling to find a job.

Job Search Tips for New Graduates

0:30 to 2:12

Learn key strategies for new grads struggling to find a job.

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Transcript

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0:28This episode is brought to you by Google Chrome. of America for a reason. With SUVs made to move with your rhythm. The versatile Equinox tackles your entire day. The spacious Traverse fits your crew and your whole weekend. And tracks bring style with value you can count on. All infused with tech that has your back. So your drive always hits the right chord. Chevrolet. Together, let's drive. Getting a college degree was meant to make you an attractive job candidate. So if you're a recent grad who hasn't found work yet, you're probably asking, what gives? My name's Rachel DeRose. I'm an editorial coordinator here at HBR, and I recently spoke to two career coaches who had this advice for new grads who are unemployed.

1:15Tip one, remember your worth. One of the main reasons for your difficult search is the state of the job market. Don't blame yourself for this and don't let it discourage you. Tip two, don't rush the process. It can be tempting to accept the first offer that comes your way, but before making any moves, slow down. On average, it takes three to six months to find a job. Plenty of time to reflect on your wants and abilities. Tip three, never stop networking. Grow those real world connections that may have been limited by online learning and internships and reach out to employees at companies you're interested in working for or who work in industries you're interested in exploring.

1:56Final tip, don't be afraid of the resume gap. You'll likely get questions about this gap in interviews, but if you can frame it as purposeful, whether that be for family, self-growth, or for the sake of finding the right opportunity, then it shouldn't be a major obstacle. For more advice on how to navigate the job search and for a sample example of how to reach out to potential connections, Read more at hbr.org.

2:48Thank you.

From the publisher

4 Tips for New Grads Struggling to Find a Job

28 Jan 2025

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If you’re a new grad without a job lined up, you may be feeling anxious about the current market. But don’t beat yourself up: It’s tough out there! Here are four tips to help you reframe your job search.

Read the full article by Rachel DuRose here: https://s.hbr.org/4azQZXk

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