The New Grad's Guide to the Job Market

By: Kyra McCue on May 20th, 2022

Are you a new college graduate about to enter the workforce? If so, you’re in luck! The class of 2022 is entering one of the best job markets that we’ve seen in years, resulting in a 26.6% increase in hiring from the graduating class of 2021. With greater competition for new college grads, you can expect to see higher starting salaries, quicker job offers, and more control in the hiring process. 

As a staffing and recruiting company, HNM Systems knows a thing or two about hiring. Check out our top tips for new college graduates entering the job market below:  

Continue learning and find a mentor 

The best thing you can do as a new graduate is continue learning and developing your skills. Read articles pertaining to your industry. Take courses and gain certifications that are relevant to your role. Join social media groups that connect you with likeminded professionals and reach out to potential mentors. Finding a mentor that can help you navigate workplace dynamics, avoid common mistakes, and provide honest feedback will help you advance your career faster than those without this resource. When searching for a mentor, it may be helpful to begin with those who are already within your network. LinkedIn can also be a useful tool to connect with industry leaders with whom you may not have had the opportunity to work elsewhere.  

Find companies that align with your values 

The 2022 Deloitte Global survey found that Millennials and Gen Zs are more concerned with the state of the world than any previous generation, and feel it is their responsibility to drive societal change. While 48% of Gen Z workers have put pressure on their employers to take action against issues like climate change, diversity, and mental health, there is still work to be done. Choosing to work for a company that is already in alignment with your personal values can bring more happiness and enjoyment to your daily tasks. Here at HNM Systems, we are committed to positively impacting 3 million lives and this mission can be found at the core of everything that we do. Our employees take pride in knowing that they are helping candidates find their dream job, better support their family, or make a fulfilling career change. 

Be flexible and adaptable  

As we adjust to a post-pandemic world, there is still a lot of uncertainty about what the future of work will look like for employees of all industries and experience levels. While new college graduates will have the upper hand by entering a new work landscape, unburdened by the memories of the way work used to be, they can still benefit from being adaptable. Experts believe that hybrid work will be here to stay until at least 2025, and that the workplace will continue to change as Gen Z brings fresh attitudes and ideas into their first jobs post college. Being open to change and adaptable in the face of adversity will help you navigate the unexpected and make the best out of situations that are out of your control. 

Our biggest takeaways: work hard, build connections, have an open mind, and stand up for what you believe in. This is an exciting time to be entering the workforce, and your impact has the power to change the world! 

Still looking for a job? We’re hiring for entry-level positions all throughout the country! Follow us on LinkedIn, search our open jobs, or reach out to info@hnmsystems.com to get in contact with one of our recruiters!