Finding a Job

Students want to know where to find legitimate job openings, how to stand out in competitive application processes, and what employers actually look for in candidates. They seek clear guidance on tailoring resumes and cover letters, navigating job search platforms, and turning interviews into job offers.

01

Where and How to Search

Navigating the entry-level job market requires targeted precision rather than endless applications. With 70% to 80% of jobs never publicly advertised, mastering the hidden job market through direct outreach is crucial. Students must strategically leverage specialized platforms, campus boards, and optimized profiles to convert effort into interviews. In fact, 122 million people have secured interviews through LinkedIn, making an optimized digital presence non-negotiable.

  • Top Search Platforms: Target niche portals and campus boards yielding high-success entry-level roles.
  • Tapping the Hidden Job Market: Uncover unadvertised roles via proactive networking and hiring manager outreach.
  • Optimizing Digital Profiles: Applicants with complete LinkedIn profiles are 40 times more likely to receive opportunities.
  • Strategic Search Techniques: Streamline applications using keyword tracking and customized alerts.
02

How to Stand Out to Employers

Students seek clear, actionable strategies to cut through high-volume application pools—where nearly 75% of resumes are rejected by ATS algorithms before reaching a human reviewer. To gain a competitive edge, students must learn how to translate academic projects into demonstrable impact and present a cohesive personal brand across every platform. Here are the critical strategies students want to master:

  • Tailoring Applications: Customizing resumes with targeted keywords raises interview callbacks by more than 50%.
  • Building Proof-Based Portfolios: Over 80% of hiring managers prioritize practical, outcome-driven project proof over standard coursework.
  • Optimizing Digital Presence: A complete LinkedIn profile makes candidates 21 times more likely to be viewed by recruiters.
  • Demonstrating Soft Skills: Showing adaptability and leadership drives hiring decisions in 92% of interview evaluations.
03

What Employers Expect

Students want to know the precise criteria hiring managers use to evaluate candidates beyond their academic grades. According to NACE, 80% of employers prioritize soft skills like teamwork and problem-solving over GPA. They seek transparency regarding core technical capabilities and essential soft skills for entry-level roles, as well as how to demonstrate genuine cultural fit. With 92% of talent professionals stating soft skills matter as much as technical ability (LinkedIn), understanding performance indicators is critical. Ultimately, students want to know how employers measure potential, assess work ethic, and determine if a candidate can adapt quickly and add value. Here are the key things students want to know about what employers expect:

  • Core Skills & Qualifications: Which specific technical proficiencies, coursework, or certifications are non-negotiable versus nice-to-have.
  • Workplace Soft Skills: How employers evaluate foundational attributes like effective communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork.
  • Culture & Values Fit: What companies look for regarding professional attitude, alignment with core values, and organizational enthusiasm.
  • Performance & Initiative: How managers gauge learning agility, self-motivation, ability to accept feedback, and readiness to take task ownership.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get practical work experience if I am studying fully online?

Our online program partners with industry platforms and employers to offer virtual internships, project-based placements, and remote work-integrated learning opportunities that fit flexibly around your study schedule. You can also showcase real-world projects completed during your coursework directly on your resume and portfolio.

Does the university provide help with reviewing resumes and cover letters?

Yes, you can submit your application documents online anytime for personalized feedback from our 24/7 AI-powered chatbot which contains resume and cover letter review tools. We provide downloadable, industry-tailored templates to help you highlight your remote collaboration and technical skills.

How do I build professional networks when don't attend an on-campus university?

You can connect with recruiters, alumni, and industry professionals through our virtual career fairs, online networking workshops, and dedicated student LinkedIn groups. Participating in group projects and online discussion boards also helps you establish early professional relationships with peers across various fields.

Where can I find entry-level job openings and internships tailored to my course?

Students have exclusive access to our online Student Jobs Portal, which features vetted remote, part-time, and entry-level roles uploaded directly by hiring employers. Additionally, our career portal aggregates relevant industry job listings and automated job alerts tailored to your target career pathway.

How can I prepare for job interviews remotely?

In the near future we will offer 1-on-1 virtual mock interview coaching via video call as well as on-demand AI mock interview tools to help you practice answering common questions. Our program also guides you on setup best practices for acing video interviews, from lighting and camera angles to demonstrating strong online communication skills.