How To Get a Graduate Job With No Experience – Featuring Career Coach Ang Richard

Graduating college feels like stepping off a rollercoaster and straight onto another nauseating ride—the job market. Except it doesn’t need to end in a bucket. 🫢 Career Coach Angela Richard , founder of Professionally Unprofessional, LLC and a Career Coach at Boston University, is here to alleviate you. With her expertise in helping Gen Z navigate the workforce, Ang shared her top tips for recent graduates looking to land their first job.

When Should You Start Job Hunting?

“It’s never too early, but it can be too late,” Ang advises. Starting your job search well before graduation gives you a competitive edge. Understanding industry-specific recruiting timelines is key. For instance, boutique consulting firms might recruit in September through November, while larger firms wrap up by August.

“Even if you’re not ready to apply, familiarize yourself with job descriptions and update your resume regularly,” she says. 

Networking is another critical step. Reaching out to professionals in your desired field early can provide invaluable insights and connections when it’s time to apply.

Feeling Lost? That’s Normal

“Feeling unsure about your career path is completely normal,” Ang reassures. “Lean into your values and what excites you—let those guide you toward opportunities that feel right.”

For those considering a career outside their major, Ang emphasizes, “Your major doesn’t have to equal your career. I know countless people whose paths look nothing like what they studied.” She encourages recent grads to connect with professionals in roles they admire to learn how they got there.

Why the Job Market Feels Tough

“There’s no denying that the job search has become a more complex endeavor,” Ang explains. “Cold applying doesn’t cut it anymore. Networking, attending events, and being incredibly intentional are all necessary components.”

She advises staying informed about industry trends. For U.S. job seekers, tools like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provide insights into in-demand skills, job openings, and industry projections. “Knowing the market helps you tailor your approach and stand out,” she adds.

Being unique isn’t the goal—being intentional is. “Tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight the skills most relevant to the job,” Ang suggests. She also encourages graduates to focus on meaningful connections. “Instead of messaging recruiters, reach out to professionals doing the work you’re passionate about. They’ll offer insights recruiters often can’t.”

What If You’re Discouraged?

Job hunting can feel like rolling boulders up a hill, especially after months without an offer. Ang recommends the ABC Job Search Method:

• A: A Job — Any job that pays the bills and keeps you active.
• B: Better Job — Use your current role as leverage for something closer to your ideal.
• C: Career Job — The dream role you’ve been working toward.

“Sometimes, just having a job can make you a more attractive candidate for future opportunities,” she explains. Just like learning the alphabet, you start with A and then work your way down.

Should You Apply If You Don’t Meet All Requirements?

“Absolutely,” says Ang, “if you meet at least 60% of the requirements and can submit a strong application.” She advises focusing on the job responsibilities and requirements listed first in descriptions, as these are often the most critical. “If your resume can reflect those top priorities, you’re in a good position to apply,” she adds.

Showcasing Skills Without Experience

No formal work experience? No problem. “Any experience is good experience if you frame it correctly,” Ang emphasizes. For example:

• Retail or Service Roles: Highlight transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution.
• Academic Projects: Showcase leadership, research, or technical skills.
• Extracurriculars: Clubs, volunteer work, and freelance gigs can all demonstrate initiative and real-world abilities.

“It’s all about how you talk about your experience,” Ang says. “Frame it in terms of the skills you’ve demonstrated and the outcomes you’ve achieved.”

Networking Works

“Networking isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about building relationships that can support your career long-term,” Ang explains. Her tips for effective networking include:

1. Starting With Who You Know: Reach out to professors, former classmates, and past internship mentors.
2. Being Genuine: Personalize your messages and explain why you’re interested in their career path.
3. Focusing on Professionals, Not Recruiters: Industry insiders can provide insights and guidance that recruiters often can’t.

“People love to share their stories,” Ang adds. “If you approach networking as a way to learn rather than just asking for a job, you’ll build stronger connections.”

Thriving in Your First Job

Landing the job is just the beginning. To succeed at work, Ang recommends:

• Being Transparent About Your Work Style: Let colleagues know how you work best to foster collaboration.
• Preparing for Supervisor Check-Ins: Bring an agenda, updates, and questions to every meeting.
• Documenting Everything: Track achievements and professional development to highlight during performance reviews.
• Thinking Long-Term: After nine months to a year, start considering growth opportunities within or beyond your role.

Final Thoughts

Job searching and starting a career can be intimidating, but Ang advises staying proactive, intentional, and flexible. As she puts it, “Keep showing up and keep building connections. You never know where the next opportunity will come from.”

Chloe Chioy is a PR Specialist and Social Media Lead contracting with Resume Genius while pursuing a Master’s in Marketing Science at Nanyang Technological University. Her job insights and articles have been featured on top career platforms, blogs, and media outlets, including Zapier, Software Suggest, VolunteerHub, Fast Company, Her Campus, and the BBC.