Viewing entries in
professional skills
After years of hard work, you’ve graduated, polished your resume, and sent out applications, but something isn’t landing. Maybe every “entry-level” job seems to require three years of experience, or maybe your major feels misaligned with what you actually want to do.
You’ve updated your resume, nailed your interview responses, and sent out applications—now what? If you’re a recent grad or young professional still navigating your next steps, summer is the perfect time to build momentum. From hands-on projects to skill-building and travel, here are eight creative ways to grow your career—even if you don’t have a full-time job (yet).
Let’s face it, the job market isn’t what it used to be, and that’s not a bad thing. Traditional career paths are shifting, new roles are popping up, and technology is transforming the way we work. For recent grads stepping into the workforce, or young professionals looking to level up, what’s important is having the right mix of skills to stay competitive, adaptable and future-ready.
Gen Z professionals aren’t just navigating a tough job market—they’re facing heightened scrutiny from employers, who increasingly express concerns about recent grads’ professionalism and workplace readiness. Perceptions of Gen Z candidates as entitled, easily offended, sensitive to feedback, and lack work ethic have only raised the bar for entry.
In a fiercely competitive and unpredictable job market, a college degree alone may no longer be enough to guarantee a successful career. While the rise of AI has sparked concerns for job seekers, especially for young professionals, it has also highlighted the tremendous value of human-centric soft skills.
